Villa Nagiso Renovation: A Contemporary Minimalist Retreat in Nagano’s Countryside

Nestled in the serene town of Nagiso in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, the Villa Nagiso Renovation by OTAA.llc redefines rural luxury through thoughtful architecture, sustainable design, and deep local engagement. Surrounded by lush forests and famous for its premium Kiso Hinoki wood, Nagiso is a quiet gem largely unknown even to many Japanese, yet it carries rich artisan traditions including woodworking and hinokasa (hinoki hat) craftsmanship.

A Vision Rooted in Heritage and Community

Villa Nagiso is more than a renovation project—it is a vision to cultivate the countryside through architecture. With the town facing an aging population and gradual decline, OTAA.llc saw an opportunity to contribute to Nagiso’s revitalization. Purchasing the land and existing buildings, the team undertook a full-scale renovation to create a boutique hotel for rent, combining modern design sensibilities with local craftsmanship.

Transforming the Space: Minimalism Meets Nature

One of the key strategies in the renovation was to open up the villa to the surrounding tea plantations and mountainous landscape. Original wooden fixed sashes were replaced to enhance natural light and panoramic views. The central atrium, once a traditional wooden hut, was painted silver, introducing a minimalist aesthetic that contrasts yet harmonizes with the natural textures of wood and glass throughout the villa.

Innovative Use of Kiso Hinoki Materials

The project emphasizes local materials, particularly the Kiso Hinoki tree, a symbol of Nagiso craftsmanship. Traditional tatami mats in the Japanese-style rooms were replaced with Kiso hinoki bark board, developed in collaboration with Katsuno Lumber, a local forestry company. This luxurious flooring utilizes the bark of the Kiso Hinoki tree, preserving local techniques while introducing a modern, tactile experience for visitors.

Crafting Experiences Beyond the Visual

The villa’s renovation went beyond structural changes. Fragrance designer Megumi Fukatsu collaborated with architecture students to create a signature Kiso Hinoki scent, adding an invisible layer to the guest experience. Even everyday objects, like cups, were crafted using the Nagiso roroku technique, blending traditional artistry with functional design. This hands-on approach, emphasizing DIY workshops and small-scale craftsmanship, illustrates OTAA.llc’s philosophy that architecture is built through incremental, meaningful actions rather than grand gestures.

A Model for Rural Revitalization

Villa Nagiso stands as a compelling example of sustainable, community-driven architecture. By integrating local materials, artisan skills, and thoughtful design, the renovation demonstrates how modern architecture can coexist with tradition, preserving cultural heritage while providing functional, aesthetically engaging spaces for contemporary living.

All photographs are works of Takashi Uemura