Sora-kan: A Harmonious Blend of Nature and Artistry in the Heart of Beppu designed by MITSUI Designtec Co.,Ltd.

Located in the heart of Beppu's stunning landscape, where lush mountains meet the expansive seas, the newly unveiled Suginoi Hotel Sora-kan, designed by MITSUI Designtec Co., Ltd., sets a new standard for hospitality. As the flagship of the rejuvenated Suginoi Hotel, Sora-kan seamlessly blends contemporary design with Beppu's cultural and natural richness, creating an immersive experience that appeals to both first-time and seasoned travellers.

The design is centred around the 'Fugetsu' concept, which pays homage to the natural elements of Beppu - wind, moon, and nature's bounty. The facade visually embodies this concept with dynamic louvres arranged in rhythmic patterns, representing the gentle breezes of the region. These louvres serve an aesthetic purpose and function as a passive environmental control, reducing solar heat and maintaining a relaxed, comfortable interior environment throughout the year. This architectural element symbolizes the delicate balance between human-made structures and the natural environment.

As guests enter, they are immediately greeted by the artwork of master artisan Naoki Kusumi. Kusumi's expansive plaster art captures the essence of Beppu's winds in a fluid, organic form. This bold gesture sets the tone for the lobby, where art and architecture come together to guide guests through the space. The tactile quality of Kusumi's plaster work, with its intricate textures, invites closer inspection, while its sweeping curves create a dynamic sense of movement that mirrors the natural forces outside.

The design integrates locally sourced materials to connect with nature. Beppu stone, a symbol of the region's volcanic heritage, is used in both the exterior and interior, grounding the hotel in its surroundings. Additionally, bamboo crafts, Onta-yaki pottery, and Beppu shibori textiles are incorporated into the decor, providing a tactile narrative that connects guests to the craftsmanship of local artisans. These design choices reflect Beppu's cultural identity and promote the sustainability of traditional crafts, adding depth to the hotel's aesthetic.

The lobby is a masterpiece of spatial choreography. Pendant lights that resemble delicate soap bubbles hover above, casting soft, playful shadows. These subtle nods to natural elements evoke a sense of lightness and serenity. In contrast, the restaurant on the ground floor presents a bolder statement with its deep blue-tiled floors, echoing the vastness of Beppu Bay. This dramatic colour palette is balanced by panoramic windows that offer sweeping views of the bay, inviting the outside world into the dining experience. Every detail in the design speaks to a deliberate interaction between the built environment and the natural world."

The most remarkable feature of Sora-kan is its top-floor infinity spa, which is situated 50 meters above ground level. Here, guests can enjoy an uninterrupted view of Beppu Bay that changes with the light and weather, providing a unique experience with each visit. The spa's minimalist design is intended to keep the focus on the natural beauty of the surroundings, creating a peaceful space where guests can fully immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the region's famous hot springs. The spa is not just a place to relax but a physical representation of the 'Fugetsu' concept, where the sea, sky, and mountains blend seamlessly.

The guest rooms provide an immersive experience with three distinct design themes: 'Aoumi' (Blue Sea), 'Shinrin' (Forest), and 'Yunagi' (Evening Calm), each reflecting a different aspect of Beppu's natural landscape. Full-height windows in every room enhance the connection to nature, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and framing views of the surrounding landscape. The room designs are not just a backdrop but an integral part of the guest experience, encouraging a more profound sense of relaxation and reflection. With suites designed to cater to various preferences, Sora-kan invites repeat visits by offering guests a fresh perspective with every stay.

"Beyond its interiors, the hotel's outdoor spaces have been meticulously crafted to engage guests of all ages. The Soraniwagarden is not merely decorative but a space for exploration and interaction. Children can enjoy the playful Fuwafuwa-Dome trampoline while photo spots featuring oversized sculptures of local specialties, such as shiitake mushrooms, kabosu citrus, and Asagimadara butterflies, offer whimsical moments of discovery. These installations, which blend art with regional identity, celebrate Beppu's cultural heritage and deep connection to nature.

Suginoi Hotel Sora-kan is more than just a place to stay—it's a destination, offering a curated experience where design, nature, and local culture converge. The hotel's thoughtful integration of Beppu's natural and cultural elements into its architecture and design creates an environment where guests are surrounded by beauty and encouraged to engage with it on a deeper level. Whether relaxing in the infinity spa, enjoying locally inspired cuisine, or exploring the artful installations, guests are continually invited to discover the richness of Beppu in a modern and timeless way."

With its unparalleled attention to detail and commitment to promoting the local culture and environment, Sora-kan is set to become a must-visit destination for discerning travellers seeking an authentic, luxurious, and enriching experience in Japan's onsen capital.

For more information, please visit: https://www.mitsui-designtec.co.jp
*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Hotel & Resorts Division

Embracing Nature's Elegance: A Harmonious Retreat in Niseko Inspired by Snow, Moon, and Flowers"

The hotel is located in the picturesque Niseko, Hokkaido, a top-tier ski destination which reflects Japan's natural beauty throughout the year. The unique design concept is inspired by the ancient Chinese poem 'Setsu Getsu Ka' (which symbolizes the beauty of snow, moon, and flowers), and it resonates perfectly with Niseko's landscape, where the majestic Mount Yotei is draped in snow under the moonlight, and the seasons unfold in perfect harmony.

The FIELD FOUR DESIGN OFFICE took on the challenge of designing a space that combines Japanese aesthetics with international hospitality. The goal was not just to include traditional Japanese elements in a modern space, but to create an environment that combines cultural authenticity with a welcoming, contemporary experience. Instead of imposing a strictly traditional atmosphere on international guests, the design reflects a nuanced understanding of Japanese spatial philosophy in a modern and accessible manner.

The design takes inspiration from the nearby landscape, especially the tranquil Mount Yotei, to capture the essence of the location. This design strategy goes beyond creating a luxurious hotel and aims to provide a deep connection to nature, offering guests an immersive experience. The architecture harmonizes with the surroundings, reflecting the snowy winters, moonlit nights, and vibrant spring scenery that define the region.

In the guest suites, design elements invite the outside in. Beneath expansive windows, a continuous daybed bench stretches from one side of the room to another, drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese dwellings' rim and attic structures. Above, a dropped ceiling, reminiscent of eaves, creates a sense of shelter and openness. Integrating the windowsill as an intermediary space between the interior and exterior allows guests to feel fully immersed in the surrounding landscape.

The spatial arrangement in Japanese design focuses on a lower eye level, creating a grounded experience similar to sitting on tatami mats. Lighting and focal elements are positioned at this level, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. The design's low center of gravity and horizontal lines further emphasize a tranquil experience, encouraging guests to appreciate the beauty of the Japanese landscape from a calm and reflective perspective.

The hotel embodies the essence of Japan's "Setsu Getsu Ka" – the snow, moon, and flowers. It creates a space that harmonizes with the natural world and the timeless beauty of the seasons. The interior materials are minimalistic, with cohesive tones, subtle contrasts, and soft indirect lighting. This approach enhances the stunning seasonal vistas of Niseko, creating a calm and contemplative environment that reflects the serene beauty of Japan's natural landscapes. Each design element is carefully chosen to strengthen the connection between the guest and the ever-changing scenery outside, providing a tranquil and immersive retreat.

More than just a place to stay, the hotel embodies the essence of Japan's 'Setsu Getsu Ka'—the snow, moon, and flowers—creating a space that harmonizes with the natural world and the timeless beauty of the seasons. Our hotel offers a range of amenities and services, including a spa, fine dining restaurants, and personalized concierge services, to ensure that your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.

For more information, please visit: https://www.field4.co.jp/

*This project is one of the shortlisted project in the Sky Design Awards 2024 - Interior Design: Hotel & Resorts Division