Villa A: Where Architecture Meets the Ocean's Embrace

teamSTAR's Weekend House Merges Nautical Elegance with Structural Innovation

In the quaint town of Hayama, Japan, Villa A stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and the serene beauty of the Pacific Ocean. Designed by the visionary duo Eitaro Satake and Miki Okuno of teamSTAR, this weekend house is a harmonious blend of art and environment.

The inspiration behind Villa A's design is deeply rooted in its coastal setting. The architects sought to create a structure that not only complements but also becomes one with the seascape. The villa's signature vaulted roof and sweeping arches are reminiscent of the undulating waves, while the use of cross-laminated timber (CLT) in the atrium roof adds a nautical touch akin to yacht craftsmanship. This design choice not only enhances the villa's aesthetic but also ensures a spacious feel within its walls.

Villa A's distinctive features set it apart from conventional residential designs. The extensive use of CLT in a continuous arch shape for the roof is a nod to maritime engineering, akin to the structural elements found in yachts and bridges. This innovative approach to construction is complemented by a large sash window that transforms the living space when opened, blurring the lines between indoor comfort and the natural outdoor setting.

The realization of Villa A's design was a feat of precision and technological prowess. The reinforced concrete structure provides a sturdy foundation, while the wooden roof, assembled from 7-meter by 900-millimeter CLT panels, demanded exacting standards in planning and construction. The result is a seamless integration of strength and elegance, mirroring the robust yet graceful nature of the ocean it overlooks.

Technical specifications reveal the scale of Villa A's ambition. Occupying a 770-square-meter site, with a building area of 294 square meters and a total floor area of 385 square meters, the villa is a substantial addition to the landscape. Yet, its design ensures that it remains a respectful and enhancing presence within the natural environment.

The collaborative efforts of a skilled design team, including architects, engineers, and lighting designers, have brought Villa A to life. This synergy of expertise has resulted in a living space that is not just a structure but an experience, offering a profound connection to the surrounding seascape and a sanctuary for relaxation and contemplation.

From conception in December 2021 to completion in September 2023, Villa A's journey from blueprint to reality was marked by challenges, particularly in adapting the design to the sloping site and the complex shape of the roof. The architects' dedication to research and innovative survey techniques ensured that these obstacles were overcome with creativity and precision. The use of CLT not only solved structural challenges but also contributed to the villa's open, airy ambiance, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the coastal environment.

Villa A's design excellence has not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by its Silver accolade in the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2024. This prestigious recognition underscores the villa's exceptional design, which captures the essence of its seaside location while showcasing the pinnacle of architectural innovation and craftsmanship.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Eitaro Satake
Image Credits: Kenya Chiba
Project Team Members: Director, Architect: Eitaro Satake (STAR) Main Architect: Miki Okuno (Moo-Flat design) Assistant Designer: Kohki Yanase (STAR) Management: Shinichiro Yamada (Yamada Studio) Support: Koichi Eguchi (adLb) Structural engineer: soaps Mechanical & Electrical engineer: EM design Lighting design: Plus y
Project Name: Villa A
Project Client: teamSTAR®︎


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