Villa Kaizen by ARK Architects Offers Ocean and Hillside Views








Spanish studio ARK Architects has completed a minimalist residence encased in staircases to preserve ancient trees on the plot in Benahavís, Spain. Named Villa Kaizen, the home fits snugly between several leafy trees. The name “kaizen” translates from Japanese to mean “improvement” and refers to the home’s strict minimalism, which nods to archetypal Andalusian villas.





Villa Kaizen Is “An Ode” To Japanese Minimalism

The home takes its name from the Japanese word “kaizen,” which translates to “improvement,” a tenent of daily continuous incremental improvement.

“Villa Kaizen is an ode to the Japanese concept of perfection,” the studio said. “This idea of constant improvement is reflected in the impeccable finishes, meticulous attention to detail, and pursuit of perfect balance in every aspect of the home,” said the studio.


Sleek modern architecture with an expansive outdoor pool and patio area overlooking lush greenery.


Organic materials like warm wood panelling, silk carpets, and cotton upholstery were chosen to contrast the home’s clean lines and hard edges while maintaining the strict minimalism.

“Materials such as wood or stone are a subtle tribute to traditional Japanese architecture, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere characterized by its connection to the surrounding nature,” said the studio.


Spacious living room with large windows showcasing a scenic mountain view, featuring modern furnishings and an open, airy design.




–>

ARK paid special attention not to obstruct views of and from the plot. Large floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces maximize connections with the natural, hilly landscape of Andalusia.

In addition to preserving the flora on the site, Villa Kaizen is built slightly below the suburb’s access road, ensuring privacy and tranquillity by hiding it from onlookers while maintaining optimal views of La Concha peak.


A modern and sleek kitchen with wooden cabinets, a large stone island, and sophisticated lighting.


The Property Is Split Into Three Areas

The villa contains an upper floor, basement, and main level that divide the property into three areas with distinct functions: three en-suite bedrooms, which double as private living rooms on the top, and spa, gym, and service facilities on the lowest level, leaving an open kitchen, living room, and master bedroom on the central floor.

“The design has an emphasis on orderly planning and minimalist aesthetics,” the team relayed.


Spacious bedroom with modern wooden wall paneling, arched window, and pendant lights.


Tall retaining walls made from locally sourced stones surround the basement level, orienting the space toward an underground courtyard and designating wellness-focused activities to the lower level.

Meanwhile, ARK used Swiss “cote d’azur” white stucco inside and outside the home to create a “blank canvas” for the surrounding florals that inspired the home’s azure palette to serve as unique focal points.

“The smooth geometry of the shapes and perfect lines cause chiaroscuro effects that enhance the character of the building,” said the studio.


Cozy modern bedroom with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking lush greenery.




–>

Traditional Forms of Andalusian Architecture

The studio mirrored the sloping topography and ensured the exterior was as uninterrupted as possible, while the slenderness of the central space references traditional forms of Andalusian architecture.

“The building is reflected in the landscape, blending naturally into its environment thanks to the use of typical materials from the area and reference to traditional forms,” the studio said.


Modern luxury bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows, black marble tub, and rustic wooden stools.


According to ARK, extensive outdoor areas, named “exterior galleries” and partially covered by cantilevers or double heights, allow residents to savour outdoor living reminiscent of Japanese tea rooms.


Luxurious pool pavilion with sleek wood paneling, stone walls, and serene mountain views.



Modern architectural structure with sleek facade, landscaped garden, and glass elements.



A modern, multi-level villa with clean lines, large windows, and a landscaped garden.



Modern, sleek outdoor space with a large pool overlooking a wooded landscape at night.


Photography courtesy of ARK Architects
Visit ARK Architects


– by Matt Watts



Tags





Gallery