About Koto
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The Koto Difference

We design calm, intentional spaces that connect people to nature - from single retreats to multi-unit destinations. Bespoke is our default: we start with the land, the brand and the lived experience, then build a repeatable design language around it.

• Architecture-first - a studio approach, not a template-first product platform

• Bespoke by default, built to scale - site-and-brand-specific design that still rolls out consistently

• Performance-led build standards - durability, comfort and longevity designed in from day one

• One studio, one vision - architecture, interiors and furniture packs aligned as a single story

• Wellness as a pillar - sauna cabins, spa elements and restorative experiences designed as rituals

“An artful expression of wabi-sabi design.” - Dwell

Our story

Koto was founded by Johnathon, Zoë and Theo with a clear ambition: to create small buildings that bring people closer to the outdoors, spaces for reflection, connection and modern living. Having lived on the shores of the Norwegian fjords, Johnathon and Zoë were shaped by a raw landscape and a culture that values simplicity, warmth and time outside. Theo, after years living in Ireland, found inspiration in the natural lines and dramatic horizon of the coastline. Those influences still run through every Koto project: calm forms, considered materials, and architecture that feels inseparable from its setting.

Today, Koto designs and delivers projects across the UK, Europe and the USA, pairing sustainable thinking and craftsmanship with design precision, creating spaces that last.

Koto Living

Created in response to client demand for a fully turnkey service, Koto Living brings interior design and furniture supply into the studio, carrying one vision from architecture through to final styling. Kirstie co-founded Koto Living alongside Johnathon, Zoë and Theo.

“Spaces that serve as tranquil sanctuaries rather than just structures.” - ArchDaily

Meet the team

We’re a multidisciplinary studio of architects, designers and interior specialists - united by a single approach: calm minimalism, craftsmanship, and architecture that belongs in its landscape.

What we do

“There’s a new prefab start-up in town… cabins that can be reconfigured for any site.” - The Spaces

How we work

Recognised & featured

Koto’s work has been featured internationally across architecture, design and lifestyle press - reflecting a growing movement toward low-impact, design-led living in nature.

Designed for place. Delivered worldwide

Koto delivers projects globally through an evolving network of partners and specialists - enabling local delivery methods while maintaining a consistent design standard. Whether you’re creating a private retreat or a multi-unit destination, our approach stays the same: start with place, design with intention, build with longevity.

Let’s build something that belongs

Have a site, a brief, or an idea worth building? Tell us where it is, what it needs to do, and what success looks like - we’ll recommend the best route and next steps.

“Koto prefab cabins… bring chic, minimalist design… and a new way of living.” - Dwell