Interviews with Franck Giral

We wanted to achieve somenthing elegant that uses local construction methods.

Have it built.

It took roughly 10 months from concept to construction drawings.

This design was commissioned by our client, the developer.

This product, as of July 2024, is under construction, and completion of at least 2 villas are planned for December 2024. The project is being sold by the developer.

Our core clientele is either developer or individuals of ski rental properties in Niseko, Hokkaido, Japan.

The buyers are wealthy individuals who want a ski rental property near the ski hills.

We tried as much as possiblel to stay away from properties in the vicinity. The short cantilevered roofs, the short balconies and the skii floor are all features rarely seen.

The high slanted ceiling in the living space, surrounded by loft windows, which makes a very bright space open on the surrounding forest.

We intensively used Revit, for the architectural, but also for the structural design. This helped us check the design in 3D and check all corners of the property.

We believe in this project and our design, and thought we had a fair chance.

This was a first for a small team of foreigners working in Japan, so it is an achievement to not only complete the design but have it being built. We are ready for more complicated projects.

Structurall engineering and engineering are interesting in general, but their application is often limited to a small part of a bigger project. I wanted to be able to have a more holistic response to original demands and needs from the client. And if we are being honest, the architect profession is more rewarding that the engineer one.

A little bit of both, I guess. In my previous work, I had to try designing master plans, some building plans, etc... although that was not part of my job description. After having established my architectural firm, I looked for real architectural design opportunities.

We design currently mostly luxurious ski rental properties. We are acquiring civil engineering skills and hope to design master plans. But what we really want to have the opportunity to design is sprawling secondary residences.

I have yet to consider myself a good designer, so it's not an easy question. I would say a great designer has such an eye that he or she has a vision that is close to the completed design. whereas a good designer will test his or her design through several iterations and maybe options to get a good design.

For me, a good design is something that really comes together. There are many instances in the design process when we feel, but cannot clearly identify or articulate, is not right and needs refinement. Finding and correcting these points is what make a really good design.

I am an engineer at heart and my dream would be to do space building's design. All the new challenges linked to toxic atmosphere (or the lack thereof), the need for a self-sustaining system and all the social problems to consider appeal to me.

A full community design, with all the right amenities.

Since I don't come from an architecture background, my inspiration rather comes from pop culture: movies, series and comic books. They all require preparation (project management), creativity and good taste.

I think my favorite design is the Porsche 911. Just because it's (almost) timeless. It's designed to perfection, and few people can disagree.

Curiosity and tenacity. Curiosity makes learning new things easy; tenacity is what helps you get the great design and it's the hard part.

For me design is about answering needs, said and unsaid.

With both humility and pride. You should be able to show a work that you are proud of; but at the same time humbly present it.

Our first full in-house project, Grand Tsuru Niseko, as we started with a new software from scratch and had to prepare all the construction drawings and building approval drawings in Japanese. Surprisingly enough, that went well.

Don't stop until you're proud.

Critical. We want to be able to check ourselves our design accurately, and we want to show the clients an accurate depiction of the future building.

We use Autodesk Revit; my engineering mindset is really made for it. Its accuracy and compatibility with rendering software are time savers. For rendering, we use Twinmotion, but we could have use another one. We plan to do master planning works soon, so we are getting used to InfraWorks and Civil 3D.

"I wish I were this smart."

Yes. Not all teams work, but when they do they are bigger than the sum of their parts.

I'm not famous, so I'm fine.

The harmonious balance between privacy and panoramic forest views in Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa was achieved through a four-step design strategy rooted in the duality of openness and seclusion. This approach leverages the longitudinal layout and careful spatial positioning to create a sense of both retreat and connection to nature.Blind Wall and Open Wall Duality:Each villa features a deliberate contrast between blind walls, which provide privacy and shield spaces from neighboring views, and open walls with expansive glazing that invite light and forest views into the interiors. This duality ensures that residents can experience the tranquility of nature without compromising their seclusion.Expansive Windows at Each End:Large, floor-to-ceiling windows are strategically placed at the ends of each villa, particularly in the master bedroom and the living/dining/kitchen areas. These windows frame the most captivating views of the forest, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection while emphasizing openness in key communal and private spaces.Setback of the Third Villa:The careful positioning of the third villa, slightly set back from its neighbors, was designed to expand the viewing angles of the forest for both the third villa and its adjacent counterpart. This staggered layout avoids obstructing sightlines and enhances the sense of spaciousness across the entire development.Limited Windows on Long Walls:To maintain privacy and reduce visual exposure to nearby villas or pathways, the long walls of each building feature minimal and strategically placed openings. This creates a balance between light, ventilation, and seclusion, ensuring that residents enjoy privacy without sacrificing natural light.This four-step approach reflects a commitment to both functional living and an immersive connection to the serene forest setting, striking a delicate equilibrium that defines the character of Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa.

We adopted a meticulous approach, delving deeply into the intricate details of traditional Japanese architectural methods. This involved designing every timber framing element and its connectors, as well as every window, foundation, and even the sequencing of the timber planks. By focusing on these precise elements, we achieved not only a comprehensive understanding of architectural design practices in Japan but also a finished product that stays remarkably true to our original vision.

The skip floor design and light-filled central staircase of Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa were thoughtfully crafted to create a seamless flow between living spaces while enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the natural surroundings. Several key considerations shaped this interior circulation strategy:Optimizing Spatial Flow and Cohesion:The skip floor design was introduced to reduce the perceived height of the building and create more dynamic connections between levels. By staggering the floors slightly, the transition between spaces becomes more fluid, encouraging natural movement and interaction among the villa's zones.Enhancing Natural Light and Ventilation:The central staircase functions as a light well, allowing daylight to penetrate through multiple levels. This design choice brightens the interiors and creates visual connections between floors, fostering a sense of continuity and openness while maintaining the intimacy of each space.Maximizing Functional Zoning:Each skip floor level serves a specific purpose—private, communal, or transitional—enhancing functionality while maintaining privacy where needed. The staircase acts as the central artery, ensuring smooth circulation between these distinct yet interconnected areas.Framing Views and Connectivity to Nature:The positioning of the staircase and the openings around it were designed to frame key views of the surrounding forest. As residents move through the villa, they are constantly reminded of the connection to the natural environment, reinforcing the villa’s concept of harmony with its setting.

The specific environmental challenges of Niseko’s harsh winter climate played a significant role in shaping the technical innovations integrated into Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa. Several key features were designed to address heavy snowfall, extreme temperatures, and the need for year-round comfort:Simple Roof Shape to Avoid Snow Dams:The villa's roof design features a clean, simple shape that encourages efficient snow shedding. This reduces the risk of snow accumulating and forming ice dams, which can damage the roof and compromise insulation.Peripheral Roof Heating to Prevent Icicles:Heating elements are installed along the roof's edge to prevent icicles from forming. This ensures safety around the villa and reduces potential damage caused by heavy ice hanging from the roofline.Snow Stoppers for Neighbor Safety:Snow stoppers along the roof prevent large volumes of snow from sliding off suddenly, protecting neighboring properties and ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment.Adequate Spacing Between Buildings:The site plan includes sufficient space between villas to allow for efficient snow clearing and to ensure that snow accumulation doesn’t obstruct access or damage adjacent buildings.Heated Driveway for Comfort and Accessibility:A heated driveway was implemented to provide easy and safe access to the villa, eliminating the need for manual snow removal during heavy snowfall.Covered Balconies for Winter Usability:The villa's balconies are covered to shield them from snow, ensuring they remain functional and enjoyable even during the winter months, offering residents the opportunity to experience the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.Double Insulation for Thermal Efficiency:The villa employs a double insulation system, with insulation both within the timber framing and on the exterior. This approach minimizes heat bridges, enhances energy efficiency, and ensures superior interior comfort, even in Niseko’s sub-zero temperatures.These innovations reflect a commitment to both functional resilience and user comfort, creating a home that not only withstands Niseko’s demanding winter conditions but allows residents to fully embrace the beauty of the season.

The extended eaves and wood louvers of Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa seamlessly blend aesthetic appeal with practical functionality, a testament to the thoughtful design approach taken to address Hokkaido's intense winter conditions.Wood Louvers for Aesthetic and Durability:The wood louvers, inspired by traditional Japanese architecture, significantly enhance the villas’ aesthetic charm by adding depth and texture to the façades. To ensure their beauty endures over time, the louvers are painted in a soft grey tone, which harmonizes with the natural surroundings while masking the natural discoloration of timber that occurs with age. This choice preserves their visual integrity and reduces maintenance needs in Niseko's challenging climate.Extended Eaves for Protection and Structural Innovation:The extended eaves serve a dual purpose, acting as a striking architectural feature and a vital protective element for the balconies below. These eaves shield the balconies from heavy snowfall and harsh weather, ensuring they remain functional year-round. To achieve this, specially engineered LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) beams were employed, capable of withstanding nearly 700 kg/m² of snow load—a critical requirement in Hokkaido's severe winters.This careful balance between design and function ensures that the architectural elements not only contribute to the villa’s visual identity but also meet the demands of Niseko’s extreme climate, creating a harmonious and enduring structure.

The material and structural choices for Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa were carefully guided by the need to harmonize durability with refined aesthetics, ensuring the villas can withstand Niseko’s demanding climate while maintaining a visually appealing design. Several considerations informed this synthesis:Durable Stucco Finish for the Foundation:The foundation is finished with a robust stucco coating, selected for its ability to endure harsh weather conditions and resist moisture intrusion. Its clean, understated appearance complements the villa’s overall design, providing a solid and durable base.Sleek Black Metal Cladding for Snow-Shedding Walls:On the walls where snow naturally slides off the roof, black metal cladding was chosen for its durability and low maintenance. Its smooth, modern finish contrasts beautifully with the timber elements while offering superior resistance to heavy snow and ice.Renewable Timber Cladding and Louvers on Other Facades:Timber cladding and louvers, made from renewable materials, were used on the remaining façades to enhance the natural aesthetic and connect the villa to its forest surroundings. These elements bring warmth and texture to the design while reflecting a commitment to sustainability.Attention to Waterproofing and Drainage Details:To prevent water-related damage, special attention was given to waterproofing balconies and addressing potential staining caused by rainwater runoff. The timber cladding is elevated from the ground to avoid water exposure, and “inubashiri” gravel is placed where rainwater falls from the roof, ensuring proper drainage and protection of the building’s base.

The Japanese-style master bedrooms in Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa were designed to seamlessly integrate traditional elements, such as tiled baths, into a contemporary luxury context, creating a space that is both culturally evocative and indulgently comfortable.Tiled Baths Inspired by Japanese Onsen:The tiled bathrooms pay homage to Japan’s natural hot springs (onsen), evoking a sense of calm and relaxation. We intentionally chose tiles over the traditional hinoki timber, as timber can stain and crack over time, which would compromise the durability and refined aesthetic essential to a luxury experience.Underfloor Heating for Maximum Comfort:To elevate the luxury feel, underfloor heating was incorporated into the bathrooms. This ensures warmth and comfort even during Niseko’s harsh winters, enhancing the overall user experience.Japanese-Style Louvers for Privacy and Light:Louvers on the main window were included to enhance the Japanese aesthetic while providing practical benefits. They offer privacy without obstructing the serene views or natural light, fostering a tranquil and connected atmosphere.

Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa represents a meaningful step toward redefining ski resort architecture in Niseko by harmonizing cultural integration and environmental responsiveness.Cultural Integration of Japanese and Alpine Design:We aimed to create a design that successfully blends the precision and elegance of Japanese architectural and construction methods with the warmth and coziness associated with alpine chalets. Coming from France, we have a deep appreciation for the charm and character of alpine properties, and it was important for us to bring that sensibility into a Japanese context. By doing so, we hope to set a precedent for ski resort architecture in Niseko, inspiring designs that celebrate cultural fusion while respecting local traditions.Environmental Responsiveness and Commitment to Improvement:The design addresses Niseko’s harsh winter conditions with practical solutions, such as snow-shedding roofs, double insulation, and durable materials, to ensure both functionality and sustainability. However, we recognize that true environmental responsiveness is a continual process. While we believe we’ve created a robust and weather-adapted design, we remain open to feedback and are committed to learning from any shortcomings. This willingness to adapt and improve is a cornerstone of our approach, ensuring that future projects can build on the strengths of Grand Tsuru.

The Silver A’ Design Award recognition for Grand Tsuru Niseko Ski Villa reflects its innovative and thoughtful approach to luxury ski accommodation, which aligns closely with the competition’s criteria for architectural excellence. Several key aspects of the project exemplify these standards:Cultural Integration and Design Authenticity:The villa’s design masterfully blends traditional Japanese architectural principles, such as wood louvers and tiled baths inspired by onsen, with the warmth and inviting character of alpine chalets. This cultural synthesis celebrates the local context while appealing to a global audience, setting a benchmark for ski resort design in Niseko.Environmental Responsiveness and Sustainability:The project incorporates features tailored to Niseko’s harsh winters, including snow-shedding roofs, double insulation to enhance thermal efficiency, and heated driveways for year-round accessibility. These solutions demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, functionality, and respect for the natural environment.Innovative Use of Materials and Techniques:The villa showcases meticulous attention to material selection and detailing. From the renewable timber cladding that harmonizes with the forest surroundings to the LVL beams engineered to support heavy snow loads, every element reflects a balance of durability, performance, and elegance.Spatial Flow and User-Centric Design:The skip-floor concept and light-filled central staircase create a sense of dynamic spatial flow, seamlessly connecting the living spaces while maintaining privacy. Expansive windows frame breathtaking forest views, allowing residents to feel immersed in nature without compromising comfort.Attention to Detail and Craftsmanship:From the custom-designed timber framing and connectors to the careful waterproofing of balconies and gravel “inubashiri” features for rainwater drainage, the villa exemplifies precision and craftsmanship. These details enhance both the longevity and luxury of the property.