K house by florian busch architects is a contemporary winter chalet in hokkaido

on the northern japanese island of hokkaido, florian busch architects has completed a two-storey winter residence with uninterrupted views of a nearby volcanic mountain. commissioned for a region that is commonly referred to as one of the world’s best winter destinations, the brief for the project called for a design that was simple, energy-efficient, and maintenance-free.

named ‘K house’, florian busch architects oriented the secluded property towards mount yōtei, offering constant views of its snowy peak. conceived as a private retreat from the outside world, a wide entrance extends throughout the property, culminating in a terrace at the rear of the scheme. upon entry, glimpses of the sky are offered via the stairwell, with the ground floor also containing the home’s main bedroom.

the house is perfectly square in plan, a simplicity reflected in the building’s straightforward construction. at the upper level, locally sourced cedar beams and columns define a large open volume. containing the guest room and bath respectively, two small boxes are placed within this grid. the remaining space accommodates the dwelling’s primary living accommodation, with lounge, dining, and kitchen areas joining a private study.

externally, the building appears as a homogeneous unit amid the landscape. clad with aluminum-zinc coated steel, the façade subtly reflects the scheme’s picturesque surroundings and their ever-changing tones visible throughout the day. internally, white surfaces have been used to complement the cedar wood, with square openings presenting framed views of the rural terrain.