Reviving Tradition: The Kuki Hotel by Makoto Nakayama

A Modern Take on Traditional Japanese Architecture in Hokkaido's Historic Fishing Town

Makoto Nakayama's inspiration for Kuki was deeply rooted in the history of Esashi Town, Hokkaido's first flourishing fishing town. This town, known for its herring fishing, served as a gateway for fish transport by ships for over 1100 years. Drawing from this maritime history, Nakayama envisioned Kuki as a ship where guests can take refuge, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The uniqueness of Kuki lies in its thoughtful design elements that echo the town's rich history and natural surroundings. The stone garden surrounding the hotel represents the sea, creating a sense of being aboard a ship. The use of stones on the roof is a nod to the past when stones were used to weigh down roofs against strong sea winds. This harmonious blend of modern design with traditional elements sets Kuki apart from other hotels.

Kuki's structure is primarily made of wood and concrete, with the strategic use of stones adding a unique touch. The stones symbolize water, reinforcing the image of the building set on a sea. Covering an area of approximately 3,800 square feet, this single-story hotel features wooden roofing weighed down by stones, a traditional method in the area. Despite having only seven rooms, Kuki ensures an intimate and comfortable experience for its guests.

One of the key design interactions in Kuki is the inclusion of a hot water spring in every room. This feature, coupled with the limited number of rooms, ensures that guests receive the utmost care and can relax in their rooms all day, forgetting the outside world. The entire inn is designed to provide a healing environment for guests, incorporating nature into its design.

The design of Kuki was realized in April 2009 in Esachi-cho, Himaya-Gun, after extensive research into the town's history and context. The challenge was to incorporate elements of the town's historical architecture into the design, which was successfully achieved through the use of stones. This design won the Silver A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2017, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.

In conclusion, Kuki is a testament to Makoto Nakayama's ability to weave history, tradition, and modern design into a unique architectural masterpiece. It serves as a serene retreat for its guests, offering a unique experience that is deeply rooted in the rich history and natural beauty of Esashi Town.