International Competition // Yakushima, Japan
Studio Mazara + Studio D121 // 2026
// CONTEXT
This project was developed for the international architecture competition promoted by Not A Hotel, located on Yakushima Island, Japan. Yakushima is renowned for its extraordinary landscape, characterized by ancient forests, intense rainfall, and a unique climate that profoundly shapes the experience of nature on the island.
Our work was developed in collaboration with Mazara Studio. We contributed to the development of the project's visual identity and aesthetic direction, as well as to key architectural decisions and distinctive elements within the proposal. It was a highly collaborative process in which we formed a unified team to reach the final outcome.
CHALLENGE
The competition challenged participants to propose a new type of place for temporary living. While related to the concept of a hotel, the proposal was meant to move beyond the traditional hospitality model and explore a different way of inhabiting a place.
The goal was to create an experience that fosters a genuine connection with the natural environment of Yakushima, respecting its landscape, atmosphere, and ecological identity.
VISUAL APPROACH
The competition challenged participants to propose a new type of place for temporary living. While related to the concept of a hotel, the proposal was meant to move beyond the traditional hospitality model and explore a different way of inhabiting a place.
The goal was to create an experience that fosters a genuine connection with the natural environment of Yakushima, respecting its landscape, atmosphere, and ecological identity.
OUTCOME
The project was internationally recognized and selected among the Top 30 worldwide, out of more than 1,058 submissions.
This achievement represents an important milestone for the team and highlights the strength of the collaborative process between our studio and Mazara Studio. We are extremely proud and honored to receive this recognition in such a globally respected competition.
// more work
