The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates

The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Brick, FacadeThe Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Facade, Garden, CourtyardThe Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Windows, Stairs, HandrailThe Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Windows, Lighting, BedroomThe Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - More Images+ 31

Niseko, Japan
  • Mechanical Engineer: Academic
  • Art Coordination: Art Front Gallery
  • Site Area: 1,046.08 m2
  • Building Area: 342.01 m2
  • City: Niseko
  • Country: Japan
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The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Forest
© Junji Kojima / 45gPhotography

Text description provided by the architects. 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.

The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Brick, Facade
© Aaron Jamieson

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.

The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Windows, Lighting, Bedroom
© Junji Kojima / 45gPhotography
First Floor Plan
The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Image 24 of 36
© Aaron Jamieson

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 Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Windows, Facade
© Junji Kojima / 45gPhotography

The grand staircase provides views of the forest at different levels as the guests move between the floors, and is designed to serve as a symbolic, sculptural element. The minimalist exterior contrasts with the abundant use of natural wood and stone interior finishes, which together with the generously dimensioned furniture provide maximum comfort inside.

The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Chair
© Junji Kojima / 45gPhotography

Altogether, the building provides an environment that is simultaneously a luxurious celebration of the client’s many accomplishments, and a warm, casual, cabin-like space for both physical and mental relaxation with family and friends.

The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates - Facade, Garden, Courtyard
© Junji Kojima / 45gPhotography

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About this office
Cite: "The Clearwater House / Seshimo Architects + Peter Hahn Associates" 30 Nov 2017. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/884555/the-clearwater-house-seshimo-architects-plus-peter-hahn-associates> ISSN 0719-8884

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