Mountain Retreat House Design at the Foot of Mt. Asama by norari works

A Harmonious Dwelling Nestled in Karuizawa’s Forest Landscape

Located in the lush Sengataki villa district of Karuizawa Town, Nagano Prefecture, the House at the Foot of Mt. Asama by norari works is a striking example of sustainable and adaptable mountain retreat house design. Surrounded by rich seasonal foliage and nestled into gently sloping terrain, this 122-square-meter residence merges modern comfort with nature-conscious architecture, providing a serene escape that responds to the varied needs of its multi-generational users.

Multi-Functional Design for a Multigenerational Family

This home was created for a couple in their 50s who typically reside in Tokyo with their daughters. It was envisioned as a year-round retreat that could flexibly accommodate numerous configurations: from quiet remote working days and weekend escapes to extended stays with their elderly mother or visiting friends and family. The house was also designed with the future in mind, allowing for inheritance and use by their daughters, highlighting its long-term, intergenerational utility.

Architecture That Respects Nature and Regulations

Set in a protected area with strict ecological guidelines, the design minimizes environmental impact. The architects derived the building's form from a volumetric study that preserved existing trees and followed Karuizawa’s rigorous setback and height limitations. The layout also integrates a connection to an existing forest promenade, making the house feel both anchored in and respectful of its natural surroundings.

Spatial Composition and Light-Filled Interiors

The architectural composition centers around an open-plan dining area with a double-height ceiling that draws in natural light. Surrounding this hub are unique rooms each oriented to maximize specific views and functions. There is a living space that opens to a flowing creek, an accessible bedroom for elderly family members, a secluded private room, and spaces oriented toward the forested slope.

The upper-level “Pallet Space” serves as a flexible area, functioning as a second living room, home office, or guest bedroom. Thanks to the split-level design and expansive glazing, this space remains visually connected to the ground floor and the outdoors, enhancing the sense of openness throughout the house.

Year-Round Comfort in a Mountain Environment

Considering the region’s harsh winters, where temperatures can plummet below -10°C, the house is equipped with a robust climate control system. This includes foundation insulation and total heat exchange systems beneath the floors and in individual rooms. The living area features a pellet stove that not only provides warmth but also serves as a focal point during winter, offering views of the surrounding snowy landscape.

A Model for Contemporary Mountain Retreat Living

The House at the Foot of Mt. Asama reflects a refined approach to mountain retreat house design. By blending architectural responsiveness to site, multigenerational functionality, and environmental sensitivity, norari works has created a residence that is both contemporary and timeless. The project sets a benchmark for future developments in scenic and protected mountainous environments, where the built form must dialogue quietly and meaningfully with the landscape it inhabits.

All Photographs are works of Yosuke Ohtake