Yuputira House, Mariko Mori's first architectural project on Miyako Island's shore, is her private studio. Its coral-shaped, white concrete design reflects the island's charm and Mori's spiritual style. Created with Ring Architects and local craftsmen, it fosters contemplation with sweeping curves and abundant natural light. Read more on SURFACES REPORTER (SR).
In 2016, Mori acquired land on Miyako Island, nearly 200 miles southwest of Okinawa, to build her sanctuary. Inspired by the island's natural beauty, Yuputira House reflects Mori's vision for a space of contemplation in harmony with nature. The design, influenced by round white coral stones from the shore, seeks to evoke inner peace and a connection to the environment.
In 2016, she acquired land on Miyako Island, nearly 200 miles southwest of Okinawa, to build her sanctuary. Collaborating with Tokyo's Ring Architects, Mori meticulously designed a house blending seamlessly with the island's landscape. The house, named Yuputira after the island's sun god, features a spherical shape inspired by bleached coral, a poignant symbol of climate change.
Architectural details
Organic shapes, natural-looking forms, and a sense of infinity are incorporated to create a space that feels like it's naturally grown, reflecting Mori's artistic vision.
Externally, the house boasts concrete walls coated with pearlescent white paint, reflecting Mori's spiritual connection to white since 1998. Even the furniture, shipped from London, adheres to this color scheme.
Its upper-floor studio overlooks ocean rocks, reminiscent of Kyoto's Ryoan-ji temple, where Mori often meditates. The ground floor includes a main bedroom, two guest rooms, and a space for tea ceremonies, reflecting Mori's fusion of Japanese traditions with futuristic elements.
Use of Iridescence
Mori's use of iridescence in her work symbolizes her spiritual experience of oneness and connection. It represents a bright, colorful world where all beings are interconnected, serving as a reminder of our shared origins and existence.
Mori plans to exhibit her dream project in Venice, which embodies her vision of humanity's interconnectedness. She also expresses interest in expanding into designing buildings in the future.
Project Details
Project Name: Yuputira House
Location: Miyako Island, Japan
Artist & Designer: Mariko Mori | @marikomori
Architect of Record: RING ARCHITECTS INC. (Yoshie Kamijo, Masahiro Gouno, Satomi Osawa)
Architect: Stuart Huggan (Mariko Mori Studio)
Designer: Laura Micalizzi (Mariko Mori Studio)
Lighting Designer: UCHIHARA CREATIVE LIGHTING DESIGN INC. (Satoshi Uchihara, Marie Yanagida)
Structural Engineers: OAK Structural Design Office (Masato Araya), OAK Plus (Tetsuro Adachi, Taichi Hanakawa)
Mechanical Engineers: SCIENTIFIC AIR-CONDITIONING INSTITUTE (Saburo Takama)