Skye Niseko opens doors in Hokkaido National Park
Skye Niseko, a 105-key ski-in, ski-out condominium-hotel, has opened its doors in Hirafu Japan. Located within Hokkaido National Park, the resort combines elements and visuals of Japanese culture and alpine touches, and features interior schemes by Wilson Associates and Pike Withers.
Tasked with conceiving the lobby, corridors, spa, cafe deli, ski valet, and five penthouse suites, Wilson Associates has created statement features including a raw split-cut stone in the lobby that resembles a slab of the mountain it sits in the shadow of, complemented by a textured slate floor, bamboo wood surfacing, and vertical beams along the ceilings.
“In true Japanese tradition, the property exudes sophistication and understated elegance,” says Kendall Thompson, Designer in Wilson Associates’ Dallas studio. “The unique location, situated above the village of Hirafu, combined with contemporary interiors, extensive onsite amenities, and visionary architecture form the foundation for this high-end, condominium-hotel ski resort.”
The penthouses, meanwhile, at either three- or four- bedrooms, incorporate living and dining spaces, heated outdoor balconies with lounge seating, open fireplaces and Rotenburos – or exterior onsens – fed with mineral water from within the mountain. The resort itself is comprised of two interlocking L-shaped buildings, connected underground to ensure that all living rooms and bedrooms have external views of the mountains and ski slopes.
Wilson Associates’ minimalist, monochrome theme is carried throughout the interior of the suites; the palettes combining varying shades of eggshell with Zenith hand-tufted rugs in charcoal and grey to anchor the aesthetic.
The hotel’s offer is completed by Ryoko Spa – a communal space featuring a sculptural chandelier inspired by the mountains of Hokkaido – and dining options including Kumo Restaurant, a fine dining venue that serves Hokkaido fare with local ingredients, and a cafe deli.
