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HÔTEL de L’ALPAGE
by ILYA CORPORATION

HÔTEL de L’ALPAGE

by ILYA CORPORATION

Shortlisted: Hotel Design - Asia Pacific Award

The International Hotel & Property Awards 2026

ILYA CORPORATION envisioned L’ALPAGE as a 12 room auberge set within the rich natural landscape of the Tateshina highlands, recalling the atmosphere of a French country estate. Named after the French word for “summer meadow”, the hotel was conceived as a place where guests could enjoy a gentle rhythm of life shaped by warmth, comfort and refined everyday living.

The project involved the rebuilding of a historic hotel that had long been beloved by the local community. Respecting this emotional legacy, ILYA CORPORATION developed a design that carefully blends old and new elements, avoiding ostentatious expression in favour of a calm and harmonious environment. The concept draws on the owner’s lifelong exposure to French lifestyle and culture, aiming to recreate the “comfortable normality” associated with French residences.

At the centre of the ground floor is a two storey atrium winter garden, around which the reception, restaurant, bar and other facilities are arranged. A fireplace anchors this space, while a large skylight allows natural light to pour in during the day, creating an outdoor like atmosphere. In the evening, the lighting transforms the garden into a more dramatic and intimate setting. Circulation corridors gently encircle this core, with artworks displayed along the walls to evoke the feeling of a small art museum.

Guest rooms occupy the second and third floors, all featuring view baths and tall windows that frame the surrounding scenery. Skip floor layouts and roof integrated rooms create engaging spatial compositions that appeal to both adults and children. Throughout the hotel, painted walls and ceilings, deep textures and carefully considered lighting establish a simple yet high quality interior. The low rise building blends seamlessly into its protected forest setting, fostering an intimate atmosphere that supports close relationships between guests, staff and the local community.

Location: Nagano, Japan

Architect: Oka Architecture Design&Co,Ltd + KAMANO STUDIO + KITANO CONSTRUCTION CORP.

Interior Designer: ILYA CORPORATION

Hotel Group/ Developer: Hotel Heidi Co,Ltd / Tobe Co,Ltd

Construction: KITANO CONSTRUCTION CORP.

Photography: Nacása & Partners Inc.(Interior),Akira NAKAMURA (Reception,Exterior)

ILYA CORPORATION has been shortlisted for Hotel Design – Asia Pacific Award in The International Hotel & Property Awards 2026.

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