Villa Kaizen by ARK Architects Offers Ocean and Hillside Views

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.