Two Villas on Ishigaki Island by 07BEACH: Modern Okinawan Retreats

A Contemporary Take on Traditional Okinawan Architecture

Perched gracefully on a hillside in the heart of the Yaeyama Islands, the Two Villas on Ishigaki Island were designed by 07BEACH to harmonize with both the natural landscape and the rich architectural heritage of Okinawa. These vacation rental villas offer panoramic views of the East China Sea while reflecting traditional Yaeyama design elements, creating an authentic yet contemporary accommodation experience for tourists.

From the outset, the design carefully references local architecture, featuring wooden structural frames, high openness, red-tiled roofs, and protective stone walls. Surrounding Fukugi trees not only enhance privacy but also provide a natural buffer against strong typhoons, a hallmark of the region's historical construction techniques.

Site Planning and Layout

The villas are strategically positioned: the garden faces the seaside, while the buildings align with the roadside to showcase the traditional red-tiled roofs. This approach mirrors local architectural customs, where roofs are often celebrated as the most visually expressive element, while walls remain subtly hidden behind lush greenery.

Although both villas share a unified design language, they were designed as independent lodgings. Each villa emphasizes distinct flow lines, spatial arrangements, and privacy, catering to different guest experiences.

Individual Villa Concepts

• West Villa: Designed for larger groups, the west building features a stone-paved floor extending from the exterior, allowing bicycles and outdoor activities to blend seamlessly with indoor living. Its spacious interior encourages social interaction and active stays.
• East Villa: With a raised wooden floor reminiscent of a traditional home, the east villa is tailored for families seeking relaxed, intimate stays. The design balances openness with comfort, creating a cozy yet airy atmosphere.

Both villas maintain a delicate balance of seclusion and connection: stone walls and trees shield the roadside views, while fully open elevations create a visual link from the interior spaces to the ocean beyond. Gardens, living areas, and bedrooms are carefully interconnected, providing a continuous flow of indoor-outdoor experiences.

Materials, Craftsmanship, and Cultural Touchpoints

In line with the project's philosophy, local materials and traditional craftsmanship were emphasized:

• Red roof tiles and stone walls reflect Okinawa's architectural legacy.
• Fukugi trees provide wind protection and privacy while enhancing the island aesthetic.
• Shisa guardian lions at each villa entrance were handcrafted by local Okinawan artists, offering a personalized, cultural welcome.
• Bedroom flooring combines indigo-dyed cedar and tatami mats, produced by local artisans from regional materials.
• Outdoor elements like the ping-pong table showcase limestone, polished and stacked to highlight natural textures.

Additionally, a thinly spaced eave system allows guests to feel sunlight and rain in a dynamic way, while a rooftop bench overlooking dense forest and the ocean merges nature with leisure.

Architectural Experience

The Two Villas on Ishigaki Island represent a thoughtful fusion of tradition and modernity. While drawing inspiration from historic Okinawan homes, every architectural element was designed with a contemporary sensibility, ensuring guests experience quality lodging, cultural immersion, and seamless connection with the island’s natural beauty.

Whether for families, groups, or solo travelers, these villas offer a holistic retreat, celebrating Okinawa's architectural heritage while providing modern comfort and luxury.

All photographs are works of Joe Chikamori