About Koto
DESIGN LED architecture

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

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 work for private clients and hospitality partners across the UK, Europe and the USA, bringing together sustainable thinking, craftsmanship and design precision to create spaces that last.

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

What we do

Cabins

Architect-designed cabins for private clients and operators - from one-off retreats to multi-unit destinations.

spa & wellness

Sauna cabins, spa elements and restorative spaces designed as rituals - calm architecture for recovery, warmth and wellbeing.

Homes

Design-led homes that balance beauty, functionality and longevity - shaped by place, crafted with care.

Interiors & furniture

Interiors that feel intentional from shell to styling - including furniture packs for a cohesive, turnkey finish.

BESPOKE CABINS - BUILT FOR ROLL-OUT

Site-and-brand-specific cabins that become a repeatable system.
We design cabins around your landscape, guest journey and commercial goals — then translate that into a consistent kit-of-parts you can deploy across phases, plots and sites without losing design integrity.

Typical scope includes:

• Feasibility + cabin mix (access, orientation, constraints, utilities)

• Concept → developed design (architecture + interior direction)

• Prototype + roll-out design system (modules, palettes, details)

• Technical coordination support + delivery oversight (as required)

Best for: hotels, estates, retreat operators, branded destinations, multi-phase rollouts

READY-TO-ORDER CABINS - WHEN SPEED MATTERS

Proven designs, delivered quickly - with tailored options where it counts.
Choose a ready-to-order cabin when you want program certainty, then tailor key elements (layout, glazing, palette, upgrades, furniture packs) to suit your site and use case — from guest suites to studios and wellness spaces.

Best for: faster timelines, simpler sites, fixed budgets, single units or small clusters

Tell us about your site and timeline - we’ll recommend the right route.
Bespoke roll-out system or ready-to-order cabin: either way, you get architecture-led design and build-quality that lasts.

selected Projects

Not templates. Place-specific cabins shaped by land, brand and guest experience - built to perform and ready to scale.

“Koto supported us from the earliest design conversations through to the smallest finishing touches. nothing was overlooked.”