背山（せざん）が建てられたのは昭和5（1930）年です。伝統的な和風建築が多い宇多津の古街にあって、薄緑色のモルタル壁の、四角い洋館風の外観が目を引きます。建築当時はきっとハイカラな建物としてまちの話題になったことでしょう。
Sezan was built in 1930. Located in Utazu Co-machi, known for its traditional Japanese architecture, the square Western-style building with its pale green mortar walls stands out. The building must have been the talk of the town when it was first constructed, surely considered a stylish and modern addition to the area.
シンプルな洋館風の外観。 A simple, Western-style exterior.
洋館風の外観に、収まりのよい格子の引き戸。 A Western-style exterior with well-crafted lattice sliding doors.
その和洋折衷の作りを改修デザインにも活かしたのが、背山。大胆に、畳張りから無垢のウォールナットのフローリングに変えたリビングダイビングがあり、ダイニングテーブルやソファ等の家具も同じウォールナットで統一されています。設備面では、システムキッチンや床暖房が導入され季節を問わず快適に過ごせます。また、1階と2階にベッドルームが1部屋ずつ、そしてモダンな洗面所と桧風呂などがあります。
The design of Sezan makes the most of its blend of Japanese and Western styles, incorporating these elements into its renovation. The living and dining area features a bold transformation, with tatami mats replaced by solid walnut flooring, and the dining table and sofa are all unified in the same walnut wood. In terms of amenities, a built-in kitchen and underfloor heating have been installed, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the year. Additionally, there is one bedroom on both the first and second floors, along with a modern washroom and a hinoki (Japanese cypress) bath.
ソファの向こうに本格的な床の間。和洋と古今が見事に調和している。 Beyond the sofa, a traditional tokonoma alcove beautifully blends Japanese and Western styles, as well as past and present.
窓の奥のウッドデッキは、部屋と外を開放的につなげてくれる。 The wooden deck beyond the window seamlessly connects the room to the outdoors, creating a sense of openness.
いつもどおりの生活スタイルで使いやすい水回り。 A user-friendly bathroom that fits seamlessly into your everyday lifestyle.
さんさんと光の入る開放的な浴室。ウッドデッキから流れ込むそよ風は、露天風呂を思わせる気持ちよさ。The gentle breeze flowing in from the wooden deck brings a refreshing feeling, reminiscent of an outdoor bath. A spacious bathroom filled with abundant natural light.
そして、この背山を演出するのは、軸のかかった床の間と違い棚、明り取りの小窓、欄間など、職人による贅沢な和の装飾。和洋も古今も混在する、居ればいるほど味わいが増す空間です。フローリングの床でごろごろできる気楽さや、開放感と明るさも魅力。大きな窓の外では、爽やかな風が竹や楓の葉を揺らしています。すがすがしい朝の光には、なにげない朝食もごちそうに変えてくれるような魔法があります。
ご家族やご友人グループで毎年別荘のように滞在する方もいて、「こういう家に住みたい」という声が多いのも頷けます。
And what enhances the character of Sezan are the luxurious Japanese decorations crafted by artisans, including the tokonoma alcove with a hanging scroll, chigaidana, a small window for light, and the transom. Since it blends both Japanese and Western styles, as well as past and present, it is a space that becomes more enjoyable the longer you stay. The relaxed feeling of being able to lounge on the wooden floor, along with the sense of openness and brightness, are also charming features. Outside the large window, a refreshing breeze rustles the bamboo and maple leaves. The fresh morning light has the magical power to turn even the simplest breakfast into a feast.
There are also people who stay here every year like it is a vacation home with their family or friends, so it is no surprise that many express the desire to live in a home like this.
欄間の丁寧な細工や、灯り取りの工夫であるガラス戸の松葉模様など、機能だけではなく、心豊かに暮らす工夫がちりばめられている。 The meticulous craftsmanship of the transom and the design of the glass door with pine needle patterns to catch light are not only functional but also filled with thoughtful details that enrich daily living.
寝室の襖戸に「水」と「山」の流れるような文字。プロデュースしたアレックス・カー氏の書。 The sliding doors of the bedroom feature flowing characters for ‘water’ and ‘mountain,’ written by Alex Kerr, the producer.
