German industrial designer Patrick Frey and architect Björn Götte collaborated on the Sommerhaus Piu, a prefabricated wooden holiday home completed in 2011. Inspired by Scandinavian summerhouse culture, the design is a modern take on the traditional wilderness retreat, intended to be a versatile space for young families, independent study, or a serene home for retirees. The name Piu, meaning "more" in Italian, reflects the home's ability to offer a rich experience in a compact form. The prefab structure is delivered to the site and can be assembled in a single day. The exterior is defined by elegant, horizontally-placed strips of wood, complemented by charcoal-colored edging on the slightly pitched shed roof, and a covered veranda that wraps around the house. A version of the design, measuring 65 square meters, features two bedrooms, with larger and smaller models also available. To maximize interaction with the outdoors, the living and dining areas feature large, full-height sliding glass doors that open to a deck, blurring the boundary between the interior and the surrounding landscape. Conversely, the bedroom areas are protected from direct sunlight with smaller windows for privacy. The interior boasts a simple and functional layout, with a service core containing the kitchen and bathroom at the center, which minimizes hallway space and emphasizes the open living area. A large roof overhang provides shelter, creating an interesting play of shadows on the larch wood facade throughout the day. Credits Architects: Patrick Frey and architect Björn Götte Photography: Patrick Frey