Steep slopes and deep powdery snow make Niseko Asia's most enticing ski destination, but the alpine resort on Japan's Hokkaido island is now also building a reputation for its thoughtful architecture. For this block of four three-bedroom apartments, designed by Tokyo-based architect Riccardo Tossani, the structure's exposed exterior concrete was pressed with timber and stained to give an organic texture. Floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows offer unobstructed views of Mount Yo_tei and are fully insulated to ensure a low carbon footprint. The interiors, by Yoo Design Studio (founded by Philippe Starck and property entrepreneur John Hitchcox), feature heated stone floors, hand-tufted wool rugs and lighting by Tom Dixon.
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Photography: Glen Claydon
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Hirafu Village Japan
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