#RESIDENTIAL ARCHITECTURE PROJECTS
toshihito yokouchi elevates timber dwelling above the japanese woodland
elevated above the forest floor, this elongated timber dwelling has been designed by architect toshihito yokouchi.
located in the japanese prefecture of nagano, the villa sits at the western foot of the yatsugatake mountains at an altitude of approximately 1,500 meters. appropriately named ‘house in the woods’, the building is composed of two primary elements: a reinforced concrete base, and a gabled timber volume above.
built into the region’s undulating terrain, the lower plinth serves as the entrance to the property, lifting the residence above the damp ground. a staircase leads to generous open-plan living accommodation that contains connected cooking and dining areas. with the exception of the concrete fireplace — around which the lounge is arranged — the home’s interior is clad completely with timber. large windows provide sweeping views across the forest, evoking the sense of living among the trees.
more secluded areas of the dwelling are found at the rear of the plan. three private bedrooms — including one master suite — all offer pleasant views, and are brightly and naturally lit. externally, the house is defined by its elevated and extended timber-clad form, serving as a comfortable country retreat for its inhabitants.
