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#RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE PROJECTS

KOYASAN GUEST HOUSE BY ALPHAVILLE ARCHITECTS

White timber framework divides and structures a guesthouse in Japan

Confession: we have a weird fascination with Japanese capsule hotels. It is entirely unfathomable how a human being can sleep in such a confined space without having an acute panic attack. However, for those that do not suffer from claustrophobia, Alphaville Architects have created a successful mélange between the traditional capsule hotel and a hostel dormitory at the Koyasan Guest House.

Koyasan, Japan, is home to the the main Shingon Buddhist temple. The 1200-year-old UNESCO world heritage site draws visitors from around the world. The Koyasan Guest House is an affordable option for young travelers that offers privacy (thanks to the capsules) as well as the ability to meet and chat with other international voyagers.

Tucked at the back of the long, narrow building, the capsules are organized in two rows that face one another and are separated by a hallway. The capsules are stacked two deep and equipped with a single bed. Other rooms house a single bed or a pair of bunk beds. In typical Japanese fashion, rather than privacy-busting windows skylights provide top-down daylight throughout the building.

Contrary to the grey corrugated exterior, a lightweight wood structure was chosen for the interior due to its easy maintenance and simplified renovation potential. White timber posts run the length of the building and organize the space into private and communal areas. Amidst the forest of white trees, guests can find a bar and seating area for drinking tea and socializing. The timber posts also create the framework for ladders that allow guests to climb into the top capsules.

KOYASAN GUEST HOUSE BY ALPHAVILLE ARCHITECTS

Details

  • Japan
  • Alphaville Architects