Finding Calm in the Japanese Alps

Minimal Design NZ
3 days ago
3 min read

Nabaraku Lodge · Hakuba, Nagano, Japan

Minimal design isn’t about what you remove — it’s about what you intentionally keep. That

belief sits at the heart of Nabaraku Lodge, a private alpine retreat in Hakuba, Nagano, where

Minimal Design was proud to be part of the project.

Set in the dramatic landscape of Japan’s Northern Alps, Nabaraku was conceived not as a hotel, but as a home — a place designed for presence, warmth, and meaningful connection to both people and place.

A Lodge Rooted in Its Landscape

Hakuba is defined by contrast. Deep winter snowfalls blanket the mountains in silence, while

summer brings lush forests, alpine trails, and expansive views. Nabaraku responds to this

environment with restraint, allowing nature to remain the dominant visual language, while

architecture and interiors provide calm structure and comfort.

Architectural Vision & Design Development

The architectural concept, spatial logic, and a significant portion of the design development and documentation for Nabaraku Lodge were created in collaboration with Minimal Architects — a studio recognised for its clear architectural thinking, refined detailing, and strong connection between form and function.

From early concepts through to detailed documentation, their contribution ensured the design remained cohesive and buildable, translating design intent into well-resolved, timeless spaces that sit comfortably within the alpine context.

Minimal Architects: https://www.minimalarchitects.eu/en

Warm Minimalism as a Design Language

The guiding principle behind Nabaraku was warm minimalism — spaces that feel calm and

simple, yet deeply inviting. The layout prioritises clear circulation, open spatial flow, and a

balanced relationship between shared living areas and private retreat.

• Clear circulation and open spatial flow

• Human-scaled proportions that feel personal rather than monumental

• Shared living areas balanced with private retreat spaces

Interior Design Collaboration

Interior design for the project was developed in close collaboration with interior designer Vojta Podlesny, whose sensitive and thoughtful approach helped define the lodge’s atmosphere. Together, we focused on interiors that feel lived-in rather than styled, allowing material textures, soft lighting, and spatial rhythm to do the work.

Vojta Podlesny: https://www.instagram.com/vojta_podlesny

Material Palette

Every material choice at Nabaraku was made to support longevity, comfort, and calm: natural timber surfaces that echo the surrounding alpine forests, soft warm lighting for gentle mornings and long winter evenings, textured fabrics and layered bedding for tactile comfort, and muted neutral tones that let changing light and landscape remain the focus.

Spaces Designed for Living

At the heart of the lodge is a generous open-plan kitchen and living area — a space intended for shared meals, conversation, and quiet evenings after days spent in the mountains. Bedrooms are designed as restful sanctuaries with minimal visual distraction and carefully considered details that support recovery and rest.

A Lodge for Every Season

In winter, Nabaraku becomes a warm refuge from Hakuba’s legendary snow conditions. In

summer, it transforms into a calm base for hiking, exploring, and reconnecting with nature. The design doesn’t change with the seasons — it supports them.