Landscape Design for a Private Residence in Western Siberia
Our client, weary of the wet winters in Central Russia, purchased a piece of land in southern Western Siberia, nestled in the foothills of the Altai Mountains and near a well-known ski resort. The previous owner had already constructed the main house, a guest house, a bathhouse, and a cellar. The decision was made to retain these structures but to update their appearances and to revamp the landscape and design of the additional buildings.
At first glance, the Siberian wilderness and a Japanese garden seem worlds apart. Yet, a Japanese architect found striking similarities. A significant aspect of Japanese culture revolves around seasonality, or “kisetsu” — each season has its own poems, dishes, and even specific phrases in traditional correspondence that reflect nature’s state.
The Siberian climate, unlike much of European Russia, is similar to Japan’s with its distinct seasons. Winters are snowy and frosty, summers are hot and sunny; spring brings blooms, and autumn transforms the forest with vibrant colors.
The guiding principle of the design was “do no harm.” The existing natural beauty, varied terrain, and streams required only modest enhancements rather than drastic interventions, which would go against the essence of Japanese landscape design. Subtle adjustments and careful detailing were enough to transform the site into an idyllic retreat for the client. Pathways connecting the buildings were cleverly concealed within the landscape’s natural contours, and terraces and meditation spots were enveloped in greenery. The layout ensures privacy; even when people are close by, they can choose between solitude or company.
At the client’s request, the Japanese architect added an outdoor stone bathtub resembling the rotenburo at Japanese hot springs. In Japanese gardens, streams and stones symbolize mountains and rivers; the flow and sound of water instantly evoke a Japanese ambiance. To enhance this, a small waterfall was added between the ponds.
The design concept sought to blend the outbuildings into the natural surroundings. By playing with the existing landscape, we concealed these structures within the terrain. As a result, different viewpoints offer varying perspectives, and newcomers to the site might not even realize that what looks like a hill is actually a garage.
Originally, the client intended to use the house for short escapes from the city’s hustle and bustle. However, captivated by the beautiful surroundings and the successful realization of his vision, he began spending more time there to fully appreciate the changing seasons.