NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA
NATURE WITHIN
Expertise
Business Development
Project Management
Design
Brand Direction
CG Visualization
Life Cycle Management
Hotel Management
"NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA NATURE WITHIN quietly stands amidst the expansive natural landscape of Kitakaruizawa. The building is designed with a sweeping curved roof that gently follows the land’s contours, framing diverse views of the surrounding forest.
By seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces, the architecture invites nature to become part of daily life. Trees, rocks, and terrain are left untouched wherever possible, enhancing the sensation of living within nature rather than next to it.
More than just a structure, NATURE WITHIN offers an immersive experience—where visitors can rediscover tranquility and richness through deep connection with the environment. This is NOT A HOTEL’s embodiment of a lifestyle lived “within nature.”"
Hassan M. Elgendy
Architect
Nahed Zmeter
Architect
Collaborators
NOT A HOTEL ARCHITECTS
Spec
Building Name
NOT A HOTEL KITAKARUIZAWA NATURE WITHIN
Location
2286 Aza Hosohara, Omae, Tsumagoi Village, Agatsuma District, Gunma 377-1512, Japan
Construction Period
-
Site Area
4800㎡
Building Footprint
400㎡
Total Floor Area
312㎡
Shiho Sasaki
Project Manager
It’s a true honor to help realize the winning design from NOT A HOTEL’s first international design competition—a project that has filled me with excitement from the beginning.
This is the first curved architectural design in KITAKARUIZAWA, and the approval process required numerous discussions with local authorities. What makes this project truly special, however, is the outstanding vision by Mr. Hassan and Ms. Nahed. Throughout the design phase, we worked closely with both internal teams and external partners to preserve their world view while ensuring it met NOT A HOTEL’s standards of functionality.
As someone who has managed several projects in the KITAKARUIZAWA area, this one holds particular significance—it’s the first I’ve led from the very beginning. I’m committed to seeing it through with care and dedication, in hopes that it becomes a beloved destination for owners and offers a deeply enriching experience for every guest who visits.