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Location: Nikko, Japan

Interior Designer: Layan Architects + Designers (Public Areas/Guest Rooms), Nikken Space Design Ltd. (Spa)

Hotel Group: Marriott International

Construction: Tobu Kensetsu Ltd.

Photography: Yoshio Shiratori, Studio Zoom

Two and a half hours away from Tokyo, is Nikko, Tochigi prefecture, a perfect distance for urbanites to get away. The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko by Marriott International opened its doors in this breathtaking location, adjacent to Lake Chuzenji, located at the foot of Mt. Nantai.

Lakehouse is a two-storey stand-alone restaurant. The first floor is a grab and go café lounge, and the second floor is the main dining area catering Western cuisine. A fireplace, made from local Oya tuff stone, is set as the centrepiece of this restaurant deliberately to connect the voided space seamlessly.

Lake Chuzenji has been an idyllic summer retreat destination for many foreigners and diplomats to build their vacation houses. The overall structure of Lakehouse is inspired by the architectural structures often seen in vacation homes. The structure is integrated into a Lakehouse design with a modern twist, while harmonizing with the surrounding lake and mountains.

In addition, a modern interpretation of elements that are reminiscent of a boathouse and its surrounding nature of Lake Chuzenji echo throughout the space, elevating the guest experience to be unique and nostalgic. It almost feels like the boathouse belonged there once upon a time, with collections of artworks inspired by boats, fishing rods, and flora and faunas that would inhabit the lake are integrated in the space – providing a visual narrative of this land’s memory.