By Snowpeak Field Suite Spa Headquarters: Bridging Indoors and Outdoors
Designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates, the Snowpeak Field Suite Spa Headquarters in Sanjo, Niigata, is more than just a spa-villa-restaurant complex. It serves as an architectural embodiment of Snow Peak’s philosophy, aiming to shift the focal point of human activity from indoor spaces to the natural outdoors.
Harmonizing with the Surroundings
The architectural design of the building harmonizes with its natural surroundings, particularly the majestic Awagatake mountain. The roofline mimics the elegant ridge of the mountain, while the eaves are adorned with a material that encapsulates the essence of camping: firewood. A staggering 20,000 pieces of firewood seamlessly integrate both the interior and exterior spaces, imbuing the building with a sense of rugged wilderness uncommon in conventional architecture.
Uniting Earth and Architecture
Internally, the endeavor was to seamlessly blend the earth with the built environment. This was achieved through the utilization of clay walls coated with soil sourced from the site itself. Additionally, discarded components from a local hardware factory, renowned for its contributions to the Sanjo region’s industry, were repurposed within the structure. Corten steel further accentuates this union, adding to the organic aesthetic while providing structural integrity.
Conclusion
The Snowpeak Field Suite Spa Headquarters stands as a testament to architectural innovation, seamlessly merging human habitation with the natural world. Through its design elements and material choices, it not only reflects Snow Peak’s ethos but also fosters a deeper connection between occupants and their environment, inviting them to embrace the wilderness in a harmonious coexistence.
