NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA

IRORI

Expertise

Business Development

Project Management

Design

Brand Direction

CG Visualization

Life Cycle Management

Hotel Management

Nestled in the lush forests of Kitakaruizawa, NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA IRORI is a villa-style residence designed around the concept of an “irori” hearth—a place where people naturally gather and converse. Blending the openness of glass with the warmth of wood, the layout centers around a modern irori, softly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. The architecture invites guests to experience the forest through all five senses, with seasonal scenery, flickering firelight, and the movement of air and light. One of the two villas is pet-friendly with a private dog run. In 2025, the updated IRORI 2.0 introduced a new infinity pool and sofa lounge, enhancing the comfort of this tranquil retreat. It is a place where the boundary between everyday life and escape gently dissolves—a space to savor time in the heart of the forest.

Member

Tessey Suma

Brand Director

In the harsh winters of Kitakaruizawa, where temperatures drop well below freezing, we took on the challenge of creating a boldly open structure with 360° glass walls. With unwavering passion, we conducted numerous technical verifications to achieve both openness and comfort, refining every detail with precision. At the heart of the building lies the irori hearth, designed to gently draw people and nature together into shared moments of warmth and conversation. From the structural engineering of glass and ventilation to the selection of materials and finishes, every decision reflects our pursuit of true richness. This architecture is the result of continuous exploration and ambition to create a space where people can gather, connect, and feel at ease — even in the depths of winter.