Kyo Niseko Resort, Hokkaido
About This Project
Located in the Upper Hirafu, the exclusive ski-in-ski-out property- the Niseko Kyo sits amidst powder snow and mountainous terrain and a forest of trees. Immersive and serene, the surrounding nature inspires interiors of Niseko Kyo.
At the reception lobby the rough granite floors flow into the space from the exterior blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. Inside, a play of materials- warm timber panels envelope the space while a reflective ceiling creates the illusion of height. A backlit onyx feature creates a statement while providing a soft ambient glow. The furniture selection features a curation of unique live-edged solid wood pieces.
Intended as a home away from home, each of the exclusive 18 units was designed as its own individual haven. The concept of Ukiyo (living in the moment detached from the bothers of life ) was adapted here. A palette of warm honey- toned timber paired with grey and off-white tones was chosen to create tranquil and restorative spaces, sheltering its users from the hustles of everyday life. Highlights of soft cerulean blues and warm orange bring a subtle injection of colour to the otherwise neutral spaces.
Taking a cue from the Japanese approach to design, clean lines and understated details make up most of the carcass, intentionally drawing the eye to the framed picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Gentle sweeping curves form door handles in the residences and make their way on wall panels in the public spaces as an expression of the brand and its inspiration- the neighboring mountains.
At the basement, vertical poles create a subtle envelope around the bar lounge, segregating the spaces and allowing for a more intimate setting. The vertical expression mimicking the trees in the surrounding forest. The shift in floor pattern helps further define the space. At the bar, raw textures of the split face granite are highlighted with a soft glow and create a tactile contrast between the smooth surface of veneer.