cloud architects weaves circular kiosk into the lush mountainous landscape of japan

Cloud architects builds wooden gathering kiosk in Japan

At the foot of the Taki mountain range in Japan, Cloud Architects has created a relaxing meeting place that blends harmoniously with its surroundings. Serving as a supplementary facility for the adjacent hot springs and campground, the project takes the form of a circular, two-story kiosk supported by several wooden pillars and housing a store, restaurant, and lounge area. The structure adopts a permeable character that allows users to enjoy generous views of the scenic surroundings. A hole in the center of the roof provides a view of the sky and encourages residents to engage with the natural environment.

the project takes the form of a circular, two-story kiosk supported by wooden pillars | images by Shuhei Imazu, Mafumi Ezoe

built landscape becomes one with natural surroundings

Designed by Cloud Architects (find more here), the building is both a place to rest, communicate and enjoy the charm of the area. On the first floor there is a store selling local specialties, a factory processing local ingredients, a bakery, and a takeaway restaurant. On the second floor, there is an outdoor rest area from which you can gaze at the mountains that stretch 360 degrees in all directions.

The main design concept was to create a new built landscape based on the natural environment, especially the local forests. The design helps the kiosk exist in harmony with its surroundings, through the openings and circular skylights that allow the occupants to become one with the sky. The sunlight can penetrate the structure, changing its character depending on the time of day.

the two-story structure houses a takeaway restuarant, a small shop with local products and a lounge area

a hole in the center of the roof provides a view of the sky

the project is designed to blend into its natural surroundings

on the first floor, there is a store selling local specialties, a bakery, and a takeaway restaurant

the sunlight can penetrate the structure, changing its character depending on the time of day.

project info: 

name: Architecture as landscape
architects: Cloud Architects
design supervision: Shinsei Kawakami + Shuhei Imazu + Hiroaki Kitagawa + Kota Himeji (COCCA)
structural design: Ryota Shimizu Structural Design Studio
construction: Akai Koubou
signature: KUUMA
landscape: Keisuke Uchida/Midori Design
photography: Shuhei Imazu, Mafumi Ezoe

myrto katsikopoulou I designboom

jan 27, 2023