Pritzker Prize-winning architect Shigeru Ban has unveiled a transformative wellness retreat on Awaji Island in Japan. His wellness vision is embodied in the newly completed Pasona Natureverse Retreat, which is situated near Kobe and designed for those seeking long-term wellness, embodying the ideal of Mibyo, which focuses on preventive health before illness takes hold.
A Harmonious Design Inspired by the Architect’s Wellness Philosophy
This is the third project by Ban on Awaji Island for the Pasona Group, following a thatched-roof restaurant and a wooden meditation retreat. The hotel’s innovative D-shaped structure capitalizes on its unique location, nestled between the sea and a verdant forest. Ban designed distinctly different facades: the east side embraces its coastal setting with wide balconies, while the west side features wooden columns that harmonize with the forest.
A Retreat for Holistic Health
The five-storey hotel, designed for both short and extended stays, features 57 rooms arranged around a luminous, central atrium. Each room offers a private onsen— a natural hot spring bath—, and many include sensor-enabled beds to enhance sleep quality. Guests receive customized wellness programs, offering therapies such as thalassotherapy, yoga, and aromatherapy.
Balancing Horizontal and Vertical Facades
On the seaside facade, Ban’s design uses transparency and horizontal slabs to merge the interior seamlessly with the coastal scenery. Conversely, the forest-side facade is adorned with rhythmic, vertical timber columns, creating a more structured aesthetic. Visitors are welcomed by a grand staircase and extensive timber canopy. His wellness initiative is evident in these elegant design choices, bringing harmony between form and function.
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Luxury and Wellness Collide
Besides the wellness focus, the hotel boasts an array of luxurious amenities. An indoor saltwater pool, several restaurants, some operated by Michelin-starred chefs, and a dedicated yoga space enhance the retreat-like experience. An event hall on the third floor holds artistic window panes designed for live performances, further enriching visitors’ stays. The architect’s wellness ethos permeates these facilities, ensuring a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation.
Shigeru Ban’s Distinctive Architectural Legacy
Ban, celebrated for pioneering sustainable architecture, received the Pritzker Prize in 2014 and will be honored with the 2026 AIA Gold Medal. His use of natural materials and innovative designs, like the notable Cardboard Cathedral in Christchurch, continue to influence global architectural practices. Projects like the Pasona Natureverse Retreat are a testament to his forward-thinking approach and commitment to integrating wellness into architectural spaces.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is Pasona Natureverse Retreat designed for?
Pasona Natureverse Retreat is designed for those seeking long-term wellness, embodying the ideal of Mibyo, which focuses on preventive health before illness takes hold.
What unique feature does each room in the hotel have?
Each room offers a private onsen, which is a natural hot spring bath, and many include sensor-enabled beds to enhance sleep quality.
What materials and design does Shigeru Ban use for the hotel facades?
On the seaside, the design uses transparency and horizontal slabs to merge with coastal scenery, while the forest-side facade features vertical timber columns to create a structured aesthetic.