Discover a Hidden Forest Haven with Stunning Views in Kamakura

Nestled in a vast expanse of over 900 tsubo (approximately 3,000 square meters), this unique single-story home offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural brilliance. As you step onto the property, two profound realizations strike you: the surrounding environment profoundly influences the home's charm, and living amidst nature means more than just enjoying its bounties—it's about nurturing the land with care and dedication. These thoughts likely crossed the mind of the owner when they first encountered this land.

Architectural Design and Surroundings

This expansive property, more akin to a forest, is home to a stunning single-story residence that overlooks the vast grounds below. The exterior, with its charred cedar siding and sleek black Galvalume steel roof, harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding greenery. From this vantage point, you can see as far as Sagami Bay, with views extending to Zushi and Hayama beyond. The property is a well-known spot for enjoying the fireworks displays from Kamakura, Zushi, and Hayama, as well as breathtaking sunrises.

Thoughtful Design by Renowned Architect Kōsuke Izumi

The house was designed by the esteemed architect and residential artist, Kōsuke Izumi. Izumi's work emphasizes not just the final structure but the process of creation itself, always keeping the comfort of the inhabitants in mind. The owner consulted with multiple architects and builders before finally choosing Izumi to bring their vision to life.

Challenges and Triumphs in Construction

Despite the property's vastness, much of it lies within an urban planning control zone, limiting the buildable area. Yet, within these constraints, the owner's vision took shape, resulting in a home that embodies their passion and attention to detail.

Awe-Inspiring Interior Features

One of the most striking features upon entering the home is the intricate ceiling structure. The sloped ceiling, supported by exposed rafters, is not merely a straightforward parallel arrangement; it is a carefully calculated design that adjusts the rafters according to the angles, using naturally dried wood from Hamamatsu, Shizuoka. The central ridge beam runs unobstructed, with no supporting pillars below, allowing for an impressive ceiling height of approximately 3.7 meters. This creates a sense of space that far exceeds the actual floor area, similar to the awe one might feel upon entering a high-end ryokan.

Outdoor Living and Expansive Deck

Stepping out through the sliding doors, you find yourself on a wooden deck that surrounds the house, almost as an extension of the floor. The eaves extend about 1.2 meters, providing shelter even during light rain. The walls are finished by skilled plaster artisans, and the doors are adorned with Japanese paper dyed with persimmon tannin, creating a serene and comfortable ambiance throughout.

A Forest Haven with Endless Possibilities

The majority of the property is a lush forest, where the owner has meticulously planned and nurtured a variety of projects. After clearing overgrown branches to enhance the view, the owner envisioned a grand plan that included a terraced orchard, vegetable gardens, shiitake mushroom cultivation, a chicken coop, a goat pen, and even a handmade playground. Some of these plans have come to fruition, while others remain in the conceptual stage. Nevertheless, the results of years of care and attention are evident everywhere. The concept map, likely created with the help of the owner’s children, is a cherished keepsake, reflecting the family’s dreams for the land.

A Majestic Camphor Tree and the Spirit of the Forest

Among the most impressive features of the property is a massive camphor tree with a trunk diameter of over three meters. This tree, with its commanding presence, seems to watch over the entire forest, exuding a sense of solemnity and power that is palpable throughout the land. It is a privilege to own such a vast natural sanctuary.

Conclusion

As life stages change, the owner has decided to leave this beloved land in search of even more nature-rich surroundings to apply the knowledge gained here. They hope to pass on this home and the partially realized forest to someone who will continue to nurture and update it.