Thoughtfully Renovated Home in Ina City, Nagano with Cafe Potential
This property, located in Ina City, Nagano Prefecture, was purchased three years ago by the current owners as part of their move to the area. Driven by a desire for a healthier lifestyle, they have meticulously renovated the home using natural materials. The walls feature makomo plaster and earth plaster, with adhesives and glues minimized to reduce chemical exposure. Floors and wall wood are finished with solid timber. The entire home is non-smoking, and the owners have consciously avoided chemical substances in daily life, making it suitable for those with allergies or a preference for natural living.
Significant improvements have been made to insulation and fixtures. All windows have been replaced with double-glazed units, and some rooms feature triple or even quintuple glazing, greatly enhancing thermal performance for comfortable winters. The water piping on both the first and second floors has been replaced with new materials. The layout includes entrances, kitchens, and toilets (with washlet) on both floors, allowing for use as a two-family home.
A standout feature is a custom-made wood stove with a suction fan design that eliminates the need for chimney cleaning. This single unit provides heating, a cooking oven, underfloor heating, and hot water supply. Underfloor heating covers more than half of the house. The hot water system can switch between wood and gas, while the second floor uses an Ecocute heat pump. The first-floor cafe space has already obtained a food service permit. Additionally, a second-floor room with quintuple glazing offers high soundproofing, ideal for use as a music room, karaoke room, relaxation space, or a quiet study. With the necessary permissions, the property could also be used as an accommodation facility.
The location is within the popular Ina Elementary School district, an area attracting many newcomers drawn to its natural educational philosophy. Shinjuku is accessible by a direct highway bus in about 3.5 hours, with relatively frequent services. A convenience store is approximately 180 meters away, and supermarkets and restaurants are within walking distance. The street in front of the house remains quiet on weekends. The garden includes a partially roofed area with a concrete floor, usable as a carport, and a wooden deck allows for outdoor dining or barbecues even in rainy weather.
