Work-from-home sanctuary found in Karuizawa, Japan offers serene respite for remote employees
Chillin' in the Forest Retreat: YMK House in Karuizawa, Japan
Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of rural Japan, a home known as YMK, designed by Takeshi Hirobe Architects, offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Escape to the Country: Your New Home Office
The architect studio perfectly captured the client's ambition for a peaceful retreat, where they could work remotely and unwind amidst nature. Upon first visiting the site, principal architect Takeshi Hirobe was struck by the serene atmosphere that seemed at odds with the area's relative density of buildings.
The inspiration for YMK’s design? You guessed it – tranquility. Hirobe mentions the calming influence of the site, from the silent air to the surrounding trees donning autumn leaves.
Situated on a sloping terrain and concerning a stream that flows below, the home is thoughtfully placed to provide ample distance from its closest neighbor. Large windows frame the breathtaking vistas, but the architecture firm was mindful of the colder climate (summers are cool, winters can drop to –10°C). To keep things cozy, foundations were built beneath the frost depth, a water-based thermal-energy storage system was installed beneath the floor, and a wood-burning stove adds an additional heat source.
Stepping inside, you’ll notice the timber skeleton that characterizes the two-story residence. A wood-truss shear wall, located near the building's center, lends structural support while creating an appealing interior aesthetic.
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YMK House's approach from the entrance to the living room was intended to create a sense of "envelopment," with visitors gradually opening up to the splendid natural surroundings after being enveloped by the building’s grey plastered interior walls.
Sitting serenely within the picturesque scenery of Karuizawa, the YMK House seamlessly integrates with nature. Alongside large windows that allow in daylight and create a connection between interior and exterior spaces, the retreat emphasizes natural materials for a warm, uncluttered ambiance. The kitchen, positioned as both a functional workspace and social hub, features custom cabinetry for storage and open shelving for easy access to everyday items.
Although specific sustainable features aren't explicitly mentioned, the home embodies principles of sustainability through its connection to nature and the use of natural materials, thereby reducing the need for artificial lighting. Energy efficiency, water conservation, and site selection are additional considerations that support sustainable living within this retreat-like setting.
Enjoy a lifestyle that merges work and nature in harmony, as the YMK House, with its home-and-garden atmosphere, offers an ideal setting for remote work. After a day of work, embark on travel adventures within this picturesque forest retreat in Karuizawa, Japan.
