A Seamless Blending of Styles in a New Japanese Villa
Located in the storied resort town of Karuizawa, where the Emperor of Japan met his future Empress on the tennis courts, this modernist house by the Tokyo firm of M’s Architects is at one with nature.
The second bedroom contains two beds, a built-in desk and sliding doors. Recessed and under-cabinet lighting are recent innovations in Japan, where overhead flourescent lighting is often used throughout the house. The wooded view is the focal point, and the sliding glass door provides easy access to the outdoors.
The exterior of the master bedroom recalls the tradtional engawa (covered walkway). The sliding glass doors resemble amado (literally, “rain doors"), which traditionally were made of wood. Another Japanese touch is the two beds. Because futon are always individual, many Japanese prefer separate beds when sleeping western-style.
Set on a raised platform amid trees, the house seems to float on the crest of a hill.
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