ALT Design and Construction: Winner of Architect of the Year Awards 2025. “A little slice of Japan”—this was the guiding vision for Jozankei Villa, a serene retreat in Hokkaido designed to embody the timeless ethos of Japanese culture: balance, tranquility, and connection to nature. Our goal was to reinterpret traditional Japanese architecture through a modern lens, crafting a home that would meet the unique needs of an international family while honoring the natural beauty and contrasts of Hokkaido.

The villa sits on a site defined by dualities, a bustling road on one side and a steep ravine on the other. In response, the design embraces this contrast, closing itself off on the road-facing side for privacy while opening up to the ravine with expansive glass facades that welcome light and stunning views. This duality creates a sanctuary perfectly aligned with the brief: a retreat from the frenetic pace of city life, centered on nature.

Hokkaido’s stark seasonal contrasts, hot summers and brutal winters, shaped the villa’s design. In summer, the home opens to its surroundings, with facades unfolding into traditional Japanese covered walkways, allowing breezes to flow naturally through the interiors. Gardens, concealed beneath the winter snow, emerge like treasures in spring, weaving life and beauty into the landscape.

As winter descends, the villa transforms into a cozy cocoon. With fireplaces at its heart and naturally heated onsen baths, it becomes a warm sanctuary offering front-row views of Hokkaido’s snow-covered beauty. Thick insulation and triple-glazed windows ensure warmth, while geothermal energy powers the onsen baths, blending comfort with sustainability.

The villa is primarily constructed from locally sourced timber, chosen for its natural warmth, durability, and sustainability. From structural beams to natural wood cladding, the material reflects Japan’s millennia-old architectural traditions while minimizing the environmental impact. Overhanging roofs and shaded walkways mitigate summer heat, ensuring the villa harmonizes with nature across all seasons.

Jozankei Villa is more than a home, it’s a living expression of Hokkaido’s extremes, a structure that evolves with its environment. Rooted in Japanese tradition yet designed for modern life, it stands as a peaceful sanctuary, perfectly attuned to the rhythms of nature.

Project Details:-
Firm
ALT Design and Construction

Architect
Vincent McIlduff

Project Name
Jozankei House

Project Category
Architect of the Year

Team
Vincent McIlduff, founder of ALT Design and Construction

Project Location
Jozankei, Japan

Country
Hong Kong

Photography ©Credit
©Aaron Jamieson

ALT Design & Construction, founded in 2014 in Hong Kong, is a premier architecture and construction firm specializing in luxury lifestyle properties across Asia. The studio focuses on high-end beachfront villas, ski resorts, hotels, retail spaces, and commercial projects. Led by founder Vincent McIlduff, the firm is renowned for its bespoke designs, meticulous craftsmanship, and innovative approaches. With a portfolio spanning from Indonesia to Japan, ALT combines Asian craftsmanship with international design standards. Committed to delivering excellence, the studio has successfully completed over 60 bespoke villas and large-scale developments, establishing itself as a leader in luxury architectural and construction services throughout the region.