In the picturesque Demänovská Dolina of Slovakia's Low Tatras mountains, Ark-shelter designed a cluster of eleven modular cabins and a wellness area for Hotel Björnson Jasná. Completed in 2020, the project integrates modular, prefabricated structures into the forest environment to provide guests with a unique retreat close to nature. The design for the shelters was based on the hotel's request for single-sided, double cabins dispersed throughout the forest surrounding the main building. The cabins are elevated on stilts, minimizing contact with the ground and allowing the landscape to flow continuously underneath. This approach avoided disturbing the natural terrain and the growth of tree roots. The shelters were carefully placed between existing trees, rather than clearing the forest, to ensure both privacy for guests and preservation of the natural surroundings. Each cabin is oriented to face away from others and towards an undisturbed view of either the forest or the nearby ski slope through large, floor-to-ceiling windows. Each cottage is made of two independent modules, functioning as separate apartments. A sliding partition wall allows for the living rooms to connect, creating a single larger space for families or larger groups. The exterior is clad in black-painted spruce to blend with the dark tones of the surrounding forest. The interiors feature light, minimalist materials, including spruce panels and oak floors, to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. Accommodation and wellness facilities The project includes eleven guest shelters and a wellness area. Guest cabins: Each of the 75-square-meter cottages is fully furnished and contains two independent apartments, with each apartment comprising a bedroom/living room, children's room, entrance hall, and bathroom. Wellness modules: The retreat also features a wellness facility consisting of four Ark-shelter modules configured to create saunas, relaxation rooms, and massage rooms for guests. Project credits Architect: Ark-shelter Lead Architects: Michiel De Backer, Viktor Mikovčák, and Martin Mikovčák Client & Co-author: Hotel Björnson Engineering office: Archekta Photography: BoysPlayNice Location: Low Tatras – Jasná, Demanovská Dolina, Slovakia Completion year: 2020