KAMENOI BESSO ROOM #7

Located in Yufuin, Oita Prefecture, Kamenoi Bessou is a traditional Japanese ryokan established in 1921. Nestled on the shores of Lake Kinrin at the base of Mount Yufu, its expansive grounds of approximately 10,000 tsubo (33,000 square meters) feature a collection of detached villas, the main building, and a gift shop, all harmoniously integrated with the surrounding natural forest. This project involved the renovation of one such detached villa, originally comprising two guest rooms, into a single, spacious suite of approximately 150 square meters, now called Room No. 7.

The plan called for a guest suite with two bedrooms and an outdoor hot spring bath. The traditional Japanese-style interiors were reimagined as a Western-style space. Encircled by a lush moss garden with gentle undulations, the villa’s landscaping was entrusted to the same master gardener who had previously worked on the adjacent Room No. 5, ensuring continuity in the design language. With this context, a key focus was on creating diverse spaces while thoughtfully connecting the architecture to its garden surroundings.

At the heart of the design is a large living and dining area that connects all other rooms. Initially, the plan considered using this space as two separate connection rooms, but it became apparent that this would undermine the value of combining the original two guest rooms. Instead, select structural columns were reinforced and removed to create one cohesive, expansive space that serves as the villa’s central hub. The rooms are arranged as surrounding the living and dining area. Secondary rooms—such as the pantry, walk-in closet, and service areas—were placed on the side opposite the garden. In contrast, the bedrooms, lounge, indoor bath, and study  room were situated along the garden-facing side, each offering a unique view of the surrounding greenery.

The interior finishes were thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious ambiance. The flooring features carpet, while the walls are finished with plaster. The ceiling treatments vary to suit the atmosphere of each space. In the living-dining area, half the ceiling is finished flat with the same plaster as the walls, while the garden-facing half retains the villa’s original sloped roof with wooden paneling, naturally drawing the gaze toward the garden. The bedroom ceilings are lined with woven linen fabric, creating a soft, tranquil atmosphere.

The original indoor baths in each guest room, featuring glass enclosures and skylights, were retained and refurbished. One bath retained its original function, while the other was repurposed as a study room. Both spaces retain their connection to natural light, with ample brightness filtering in from above and the front. Additionally, outdoor bath was added, providing guests with sweeping views of the garden.

The spacious suite introduces subtle variations in design, offering diverse settings that allow guests to enjoy different scenes and experiences within the villa. Through these elements, Room No. 7 is designed to create a seamless blend of relaxation, functionality, and connection to nature.

Phase 1: KAMENOI BESSO YUNOTAKE AN
Phase 2: KAMENOI BESSO ROOM #5