The Clearwater Building, Hokkaido Home, Niseko House, Japanese Property Photos
The Clearwater Building in Hokkaido
Weekend House in Japan design by Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates
post updated 20 Mar 2021 ; 15 Nov 2017
The Clearwater Building – Hokkaido House
Design: Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates
Location: Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan
The Clearwater Building

This vacation home on Japan?s northernmost island of Hokkaido sits on a bluff with a view of Mt. Yotei (also called Ezo Fuji for its resemblance to Mt. Fuji), overlooking a river that meanders slowly along the base of the mountain. The structure cantilevers out over the bluff as if to float amidst the surrounding nature. Its name, The Clearwater, is derived from the pure snowmelt from Mt. Yotei that flows in the river below.
Three rectangular forms support one another in alternating layers, which are clearly organized in the following manner: The lowest level containing a ?wellness area,? the middle level (the ground floor) the public domain of the house, and the uppermost level (the second floor) private bedrooms. There are two master bedrooms, each with its own view of either Mt. Yotei or Mt. Annupuri.

Upon approach, the façade seems closed. It offers privacy from the street and neighboring properties, but also offers an element of surprise as the building completely opens to the landscape on the other side: taking in panoramic views of Niseko area.

The grand staircase provides views...