Conch Architecture Edit
Kotaro Ide's Seashell House Is Nestled in the Forests of Japan

There is no denying the captivating quality of this seashell-inspired home designed by Kotaro Ide. The sculptural quality of this vacation home built in the woods of Karuizawa in the Nagano prefecture of Japan, shies away from the use of the decay-prone wood commonly utilized for villas in this region.

The reinforced concrete elliptical shells were formed together to resemble the shape of a conch shell.

In addition, the flowing shape of the structure is surrounded by ulin wood terraces, which seem to grown from the main buildings. The ergonomic shape and integration of the house with the surrounding forest are testaments to the considerations of man working with nature, while still producing a habitable structure.

The creation of the seashell house was a long time in realization, with eighteen months to plan, and two and a half years to complete the actual building.

Given the resulting beauty of the dwelling, it is safe to say it was worth the wait.