Silver A' Design Award Winner 2023
A dramatic charcoal-black architectural volume commands the composition, its angular form emerging from a dense verdant forest setting like a crystalline geological formation thrust from the earth, Hayato Ishii's Norm Air Hotel presents a striking study in contrasts where the deep matte black of horizontal timber cladding establishes a profound dialogue with the surrounding emerald canopy of coniferous and deciduous trees, the building's massing demonstrates sophisticated geometric manipulation with the primary facade featuring a bold diagonal cut that creates a dynamic pentagonal profile when viewed from this elevated three-quarter perspective, the standing seam metal roof in pewter gray descends at a pronounced angle incorporating skylights that punctuate the surface with rhythmic horizontal elements suggesting controlled zenith illumination, fenestration is strategically deployed with large rectangular glazing units on the upper level revealing warm amber interior illumination that creates intimate pools of light against the cool exterior, a cantilevered glass balcony with transparent balustrade projects from the upper facade offering an interstitial space between interior comfort and forest immersion, the lower level windows are dressed with soft ivory curtains providing privacy while maintaining the geometric rigor of the openings, the compositional structure follows a dynamic asymmetrical balance where the dominant dark mass is counterweighted by the organic profusion of vegetation, the chromatic palette operates on a complementary schema with the cool blue-black of the structure against the warm yellow-greens of new growth and the deeper viridian of mature foliage, atmospheric conditions suggest overcast diffused lighting creating soft shadows and allowing the saturated greens to glow with particular intensity, spatial depth is achieved through overlapping planes of trees creating a layered recession into misty middle distance, the textural contrast between the linear regularity of the cladding and the organic chaos of foliage creates visual tension resolved through the mediating gray tones of the gravel path and stone retaining wall in the foreground, this work demonstrates clear affinities with contemporary Nordic architectural traditions particularly the integration of built form within sensitive natural landscapes
The private hotel Norm Air, based on the concept of chill and art, was designed to provide a luxurious chill experience. Overlooking the sky, forests, and lakes, the hotel offers a visual experience of floating in the sky, just as the word air implies. Designed for inclement weather, guests can enjoy the art on display at the hotel and the luxury chill experience even on rainy or cold days. Furniture and tools created by artists and designers allow you to enjoy an extraordinary experience.