Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu Mountain Center

We have renovated the Mountain Center, located at the foot of the Niseko Tokyu Grand Hirafu slopes in Abuta District, Hokkaido.
The facility consists of two floors: a shop and ticket counter on the first floor and a restaurant on the second floor. In this renovation, the sales floor area on the first floor has been expanded by 1.6 times, and the restaurant on the second floor has been renamed "sanshoku" and completely renewed along with the spatial design.

concept design interpreted the facility as one that would see guests off to the course as they disembark at Grand Hirafu, and also as a place to welcome guests returning from the course. By blending the generous, enveloping nature of Hokkaido into the newly enhanced, cool brand identity symbolized by "Hirafu Blue," and scattering these elements throughout the lively, once-in-a-lifetime atmosphere that only a resort facility can offer, we aimed to create a space that would create a unique, cool yet somehow warm experience.

The customer had three main issues:
①We want to create a facility that gives you the feeling of a mountain resort, worthy of the world-famous Niseko.
2) We want to create a space that will pique the curiosity of visitors as the gateway to Grand Hirafu.
3) We want to incorporate ideas that allow people to feel the local flavor.

The key to concept design was to incorporate the soft texture of Niseko's distinctive wood and stone into the space, as well as to create a beautiful contrast with the cool "Hirafu Blue" brand color. We thought this would create a unique atmosphere in the space, and proceeded carefully, striking a balance while imagining what kind of view visitors would see.

The facility is also designed with durability and functionality in mind, with the expectation that people will be walking around in ski boots or mountain boots, and allows for different usage and dining styles depending on the time of day.

To create a space that stimulates curiosity and is enjoyable, we selected a lighting plan, furniture placement, shape, and materials that would suit this. The eye-catching lighting and sign details, as well as the carpet pattern on the floor, are original concept design that subtly convey the identity of a mountain resort.

Through the renovation, the entire facility has been transformed into a bright and comfortable space. The restaurant windows offer views of Niseko's abundant nature, including Mt. Yotei, and are extremely popular with visitors. The lighting on the skis also encourages natural communication between customers and staff, and serves as a very effective accent to the space.