One of the most creative and influential Japanese architects today, Sou Fujimoto has created a one-of-a-kind circular-shaped holiday home positioned on Ishigaki Island, an idyllic island in Japan’s southwestern region of Okinawa. Dubbed “Earth”, the villa boasts a meadow green roof, allowing it to effortlessly merge with the surrounding nature.

Growing up in rural Hokkaido in the 1970s, Fujimoto has always been fascinated by nature. Since he founded his Tokyo-based firm, Sou Fujimoto Architects, in 2000, he has designed houses, apartment towers and retail complexes that are a seamless mix of nature and everyday life. Inspired by organic structures such as the nest, the cave and the forest, he has captivated the world with his experimental projects. Trees cut through living areas and decorate facades; transparent walls dissolve the barrier between the inside and outside worlds. 

Designed for the Japanese hospitality brand Not A Hotel’s latest project, Fujimoto’s solitary villa occupies an expansive 9,900 square metres with an oceanic panorama. It’s organised in a way that every angle provides optimal views of the beautiful landscape, as such it has no front or back. The walkable green roof of the villa is surrounded by a pond and a tree, with no other buildings visible, just slices of the deep blue sky. Visitors can truly feel the comfort of nature as the villa prioritises outward views with open-plan living and dining areas overlooking the sea through seamless floor-to-ceiling glass. 

The relaxing retreat is amped with multiple amenities such as an infinity pool that merges with the sea, spacious living and dining rooms, a private garden, a fully-equipped gym, an underwater sauna and four separate bedrooms, which can accommodate up to 10 guests. The bedroom on the waterside offers serene views of the sea, with a bathroom that allows the residents to catch glimpses of the horizon. The rooftop garden also accommodates a pool for kids to play in, as well as a fireplace to gather around and warm up.

Whether sitting under the shade of the main tree or enjoying a glass of wine on the terrace, the Not A Hotel flagship exudes relaxation and calm. The hospitality brand is now bringing the serene villa to market in mid-February. 

For more details, head over to Not A Hotel’s website.