AME
YAKUSHIMA, JAPAN
The site is situated on a slope between the mountain and the sea, perennially nourished by the abundant rainfall of Yakushima. The rain is not merely a climatic feature but rather like a silent energy, quietly gathering across the land, moistening every inch of soil and air.
The trees in the forest, continuously nurtured by the rain, stretch their branches and leaves, radiating a vibrant and profound vitality. The architecture nestled among the woods appears to have grown naturally within the landscape—neither intrusive nor conspicuous, only quietly hidden within the depths of the greenery. It invites one to step inside, to wander and linger, discovering a solitude and inner tranquility through exploration.
Here, the grandeur of the mountain, the vastness of the sea, the tenderness of the rain, and the vitality of the trees are no longer distant scenery but daily experiences woven into the space. The design seeks, in a humble and subtle way, to allow people to feel the diverse forms of natural beauty at every pause within the architecture—whether majestic or delicate, eternal or fluid—thus creating a dwelling where both body and mind can engage in dialogue with nature.
rain in between mountain and sea
habitat in the forest
A circular water courtyard nestles between the mountain and the sea, serving as a spiritual core that gathers the energy of nature. The overall layout unfolds around this water courtyard: on rainy days, one can watch raindrops gently touch the water’s surface, sending ripples across it, and sitting quietly within, the mind grows still with the scene; on clear days, it reflects the sky, clouds, and the distant rolling mountain ridges, forming its own tranquil microcosm of the sky. A meandering cloister beside the water courtyard connects all functional spaces. Strolling along it feels like walking a forest path, where one can sense the presence of the trees outside through the gaps between the columns. Each space frames a distinct view—the living room, dining area, and kitchen open up toward the expansive sea; the master bedroom enjoys a triple vista of mountain, sea, and forest; the second bedroom overlooks the sea and the dense woods; the third bedroom is the most intimate with the forest, its balcony reaching into the branches, almost touching the greenery.
Every room also has its own soaking tub, offering private comfort. The bath space is nestled against a raised green slope, sheltered under large trees and oriented toward the mountain, blending with the natural texture; even while stretching out in the pool, one can gaze at the silhouette of the peak. A separate reading room is also incorporated into the design, creating a completely quiet, undisturbed space for contemplation. Furthermore, diverse outdoor and semi-outdoor terrace spaces are arranged in different areas: the curved terrace outside the living room, the pathway encircling the water courtyard, the leisure zone adjacent to the pool and set among the trees, and the covered activity platform on the ground floor, from which one can step onto the flat ground for outdoor experiences. The main living spaces are concentrated on the second floor. From the parking area on the first floor, one ascends via a curved staircase to enter the open-plan living area.
