Perched on a verdant hillside in Tateyama, Japan, overlooking Toyama Bay, is a house boasting breathtaking views, which was designed to rejuvenate the spirits of its city-dwelling owners when they visit on the weekends. The stunning landscape and ever-changing ocean vistas inspired the interior design, which at every single opportunity maximises the visual impact of the great outdoors.

The internal architectural configuration, conceived by Ryoko Ogoshi and her award-winning Tokyo-based studio, Ron Design, ensures that all the key rooms – an open-plan ground floor and two bedrooms upstairs – are oriented towards the uninterrupted sea view. Calm, warm interiors provide a luxurious haven for relaxation, perfect for unwinding on rainy days when weather interrupts watersports or intimate evenings beside the vast contemporary fireplace.

A dramatic double-height living space serves as the backbone of the layout, with a sunken seating area below framed by the magnificent seascape. This clever design conjures a quiet sense of awe, with soaring ceilings and expansive windows amplifying the seamless connection between inside tranquillity and untamed nature outside. Comfortable beige sofas piled high with blue, gold and cream throw cushions invite relaxation and contemplation. These colour accents are repeated on the plush rug underfoot and a large painting hanging high on one wall.

Adjacent to the living area, a beautiful open kitchen and dining space form the heart of the home. The kitchen’s sleek, minimalist design is softened by warm-toned-wood cabinetry. A centre island provides ample counter space for food preparation, while a built-in breakfast nook offers a cosy spot for casual dining.

The dining area is defined by a splendid wooden table surrounded by cocoon-like grey upholstered chairs. This medley of mellow tones and organic textures adds natural elegance to the space. Suspended above the table is a sleek modern light fixture providing warm ambient lighting, while floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light and offer breathtaking views of the seascape.

The couple’s active lifestyle was a driving force behind the design concept. As avid surfers and outdoor enthusiasts, they wanted a weekend retreat that would allow them to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Japanese coastline. The designers responded with an interior that not only celebrates the incredible sea views but also incorporates natural materials, textures and colours throughout.

Subtle nods to the owners’ Japanese-American heritage have been thoughtfully incorporated – a blend of Eastern and Western influences that achieves a unique and harmonious space. The result is a serene, modern home that complements the dramatic setting and reflects their deep appreciation for nature.

The two bedrooms are simply furnished with muted hues and fabrics, designed to direct the eye to the scenic feast beyond the windows. The master suite is bathed in natural light, with a spacious layout that evokes stillness. The twin guest room, on the other hand, features elegant Japanese wallpaper that holds sentimental value for the home owners, adding a touch of personality to the space.

Both bedrooms come with ensuite bathrooms, each designed to provide a calm and rejuvenating experience. The master ensuite features a spacious walk-in shower with a rainfall showerhead and an onsen-inspired jacuzzi tub for relaxing hot soaks. The walls are clad in glossy white marble, while the floors are paved with warm grey limestone.

The guest bathroom, while smaller in scale, is no less luxurious. A compact walk-in shower has a sleek glass enclosure, while a wall-mounted vanity offers ample storage for toiletries. The bedroom’s richer colour palette and natural textures impart an aura of peace and reflection, making it the perfect retreat for family members or friends joining the couple and their two small dogs on their frequent getaways.

In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, a sustainable approach was adopted in the erection and modelling of this 190-square-metre abode. It is built predominately from wood in an eco-friendly mindset reflected by the use of natural materials, energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible construction methods. Thus, the design team has delivered a retreat that not only revives the owners’ spirits but also contributes to the wellbeing of the planet.

One of the most striking aspects of this house is its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Glass expanses and sliding doors create a sense of continuity between the interior and exterior, allowing the couple and their guests to immerse themselves fully in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Whether they are lounging on the sun-drenched deck or cosying up by the fire, the occupants can always feel connected to the magnificent landscape.

From the reclaimed wood accents to the natural-fibre rugs, every element of the design has been carefully chosen to reflect the owners’ love of nature and the outdoors. Even the colour palette of soothing blues, greens and greys is inspired by the ebb and flow of the sea through the seasons.

This impressive weekend retreat serves as a testament to the power of thoughtful design. By blending modern luxury with sustainable living and a deep appreciation for nature, the interior architects have created a space that is sure to nourish the souls of all who dwell within.