The Bivacco Brédy is a high-altitude mountain shelter designed as a tribute to Claudio Brédy, a local politician and alpinist from Italy's Aosta Valley who tragically died in 2017. Designed by BCW Collective and inaugurated in 2021, the bivouac is set at an altitude of 2,528 meters in the secluded Vertosan Valley, near the alpine lakes of Dzioule. Its design is both functional and deeply symbolic, reflecting Brédy's spirit and connection to the mountains he loved. The project was initiated by the Brédy family and was the result of an invited competition organized by YACademy and Cantieri d’Alta Quota. The winning proposal by BCW Collective was chosen for its ability to poetically and practically interpret the rugged mountain landscape and honor Brédy's memory. The cantilevered structure, which appears to launch into the void, is a poignant architectural gesture that evokes the loss of a cherished member of the community. Positioned on a rock slab, the shelter serves as a new landmark in the Vertosan Valley. The bivouac is designed for both introspection and an immersive experience of the surrounding mountains. The south-facing shelter is strategically oriented to frame dramatic views of peaks like the Grivola and Gran Paradiso, a summit Brédy had climbed. The minimalist interior focuses occupants on the landscape outside. The 12 m² interior is functional and warm, clad in wood panels. Six bunks made from climbing cord line the sides, leading to a common area with a large window. A vestibule provides space for gear storage. The cabin features a solar panel to charge mobile devices, allowing for an off-grid experience. The bivouac was prefabricated in modules to minimize its environmental impact and facilitate transport to the remote location. The structure was built in three parts, which were then delivered by helicopter and assembled on-site in a matter of days. A steel frame foundation secures the structure directly to the rock, ensuring minimal disruption to the landscape. This frame supports insulated timber panels. The exterior is covered in dark, aluminum cladding selected for its durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. Project credits Architects: BCW Collective (Chiara Tessarollo, Skye Sturm, and Facundo Arboit) Construction: Chenevier S.p.a Photographer: BCW Collective

The House in Saint-Julien is an 88-square-meter wooden home in rural Haute-Vienne, France, designed by the Parisian studio Ciguë and completed in 2022. Conceived as a simple, low-impact summer retreat for a Parisian couple, the house stands elevated on removable steel foundations. This approach provides a sharp contrast to the area's traditional stone houses and draws inspiration from the lightweight, post-and-beam Case Study Houses of 1960s California. The house is designed to have minimal impact on its landscape, offering the flexibility to be fully disassembled and relocated without leaving a trace. The design is both modern and reverent of its natural setting. The house is bioclimatic, designed to use natural principles to manage its internal climate. The almost-square, timber-clad volume is elevated on slender, removable steel foundations. This design creates a large, raised wooden deck that wraps around the south side of the home, providing several seating areas with dramatic views over the valley. The elevated design ensures the house sits lightly on the land. Architect Alphonse Sarthout noted that the owners could theoretically take the house with them in 50 years if they chose to. The house is designed to be naturally ventilated. Openings are strategically placed on the east and west to capture cross breezes, aiding in cooling the interior during warmer months. A large, cantilevered roof overhang provides generous shading to the south-facing glazing, further controlling solar gain. The interior is arranged in an L-shape, creating an open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area with full-height glazing that connects the inside with the landscape. The material palette is simple, sustainable, and designed to create a calm, naturalistic atmosphere. The house is clad in blackened Douglas fir, a sustainable local material chosen to contrast with the traditional stone homes of the region. The house rests on removable screw piles, a ground-friendly foundation system that allows the structure to be uninstalled without significant earthwork. Interior walls are made from Fermacell, a fiber gypsum board made from recycled materials. The floor is made from calcium sulfate, a recyclable and insulating material widely used in Europe. Kitchen and storage units feature simple spruce plywood with integrated cut-out drawer pulls instead of hardware, enhancing the minimalist aesthetic. The house is insulated with blown-in cellulose, a thermally efficient and eco-friendly material. Project credits Architecture: Ciguë Lead Architect: Alphonse Sarthout Photography: Maris Mezulis

The Single-Family Home in Rodersdorf is a minimal, prefabricated timber-frame house located in the Swiss municipality of Rodersdorf. Designed by Berrel Berrel Kräutler Architekten, the 172-square-meter home was completed in 2016 and is perched on a southwestern slope with views over the Alsatian countryside. The architectural design is based on a contrast between a simple, unassuming exterior and a dynamic, sculptural interior. The cubature of the detached house adheres to local building code specifications, featuring a gabled roof that is reinterpreted in a contemporary way. The material palette is designed to weather naturally over time, with the roof and shorter facades clad in a copper-titanium-zinc alloy, and the long sides finished with rhythmic wooden slats. To maximize the use of the sloped plot, the interior is divided into four distinct split levels that flow into one another. This creates an open, loft-like experience despite the modest footprint of the house. A key feature of the interior is a suspended wooden shell that contains the two upper floors and houses the bedroom, study, and bathroom. This creates a double-height central space below, which serves as the heart of the home. Throughout the interior, precise carpentry work creates seamless connections between spaces. Storage units and minimalist stairs are integrated flush into walls and surfaces, creating an abstract and uncluttered living environment. The prefabricated timber frame and other materials were chosen for their durability and how they would respond to the environment over time. The ground floor includes the entrance, kitchen, dining area, and living room, which are connected visually and spatially. The two upper levels in the suspended wooden shell contain the private quarters, and the lower cellar and storage rooms are tucked into the slope. Narrow skylight slits in the roof and along the integrated shell, combined with a large window in the double-height space, flood the interior with natural light. Project credits Architects: Berrel Berrel Kräutler Architekten Location: Rodersdorf, Switzerland Project Year: 2016 Photography: Eik Frenzel Manufacturers and Contractors: PM Holzbau Mangold AG (timber construction), Bruno Hügli AG (tinsmith), SM Schreinerei (carpenter).

The Gilay Estate is a 40 m², off-grid luxury accommodation designed by Cameron Anderson Architects (CAARCH). Located in Quirindi, New South Wales, Australia, the project was completed in 2024 and is available for short-term stays. The estate is a minimalist, single-story retreat that honors the local landscape and incorporates sustainable, self-sufficient features. The name "Gilay" is the Gomeroi word for moon, a detail that reflects the design team's consultation with a local Aboriginal Elder during the process. The structure features a distinctive, sloping sheet metal roof with deep overhangs that protect the building from the harsh Australian sun. This roof form echoes the simple silhouette of a tent or shed, lending a humble, earthy feel. The exterior is clad in charred timber, a nod to the traditional Indigenous practice of fire management and regeneration. The interior uses warm, natural timber, symbolizing regrowth. The 40 m² interior is largely open-plan, with the king-sized bed integrated into the main living space to maximize the experience of the panoramic views. Large double-glazed windows and a curved cutaway in the roof are strategically placed to frame spectacular views of the Liverpool Plains, the nearby mountain ranges, and the sky for moon-gazing. The Gilay Estate was designed for full off-grid functionality and self-sufficiency. A 6.4-kW rooftop solar array with an 11.4-kW battery provides all of the building's energy. A 60,000-liter tank collects 100% of the rainwater needed for the accommodation. Strategic glazing and generous roof overhangs minimize heat gain from the summer sun. The project also incorporates greywater systems and native landscaping, further cementing its low-impact approach. Project credits Architects: Cameron Anderson Architects Builder: Aztek Constructions Photography: Morning Swim Landscape Architects: Somewhere Landscape Architects Structural Engineering: Kelley Covey Group Environmental Engineering: Building Sustainability Assessments Bushfire Consultant: BEMC Solar: Black Lab Solar Location: Quirindi, New South Wales, Australia

Forest House 02 is a minimalist and lightweight tiny home designed by Chu Van Dong of D12 Architect. Completed in 2018, the 45 m² house is located in the northern mountains of Vietnam, near Hanoi, and was created to serve as a serene retreat for 2–4 people. The house is notable for its innovative, treehouse-inspired design, which perches it on a steep hill and uses a playful "hammock deck" to integrate the living space with a large, existing tree trunk. The design of Forest House 02 prioritizes a minimal impact on the natural surroundings and an intimate connection with the environment. The house is built with a simple, lightweight structure using steel box frames, wood, glass, lightweight concrete, and clay stone. This approach reduces the load on the foundation and minimizes the construction's effect on the landscape. The house is supported by two steel pillars and rests on a rock drop-off, making it feel like it is floating among the treetops. The interior, at nearly 500 square feet, is arranged in an L-shape, accommodating a combined living room-kitchen area and a bedroom. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and sliding doors liberate the views and maximize the interaction between the interior and the forest. Forest House 02 is distinguished by its material choices and unique features that blend comfort with the outdoors. A favorite feature is the "hammock-like" terrace, an outdoor playground with a net deck that wraps around a large tree trunk, offering a relaxing, semi-suspended space among the branches. The predominantly wooden interior is accented with stone and marble, creating a "luxe glamping" feel that is both rustic and elegant. As with Chu Van Dong's earlier work, the project demonstrates a commitment to creating low-cost yet well-designed residential spaces. Project credits Architect: D12 Architect Lead Architect: Chu Van Dong Location: Sóc Sơn District, Hanoi, Vietnam Completion Year: 2018 Photographer: Lê Hoàng Manufacturers: Dulux, Hoa Phat (materials), and local pine wood

Designed by Trondheim-based Bergersen Arkitekter AS and completed in 2017, Viewpoint Granasjøen is a small, multi-functional cabin situated in the scenic Trollheimen mountain region of Norway. Overlooking the Granasjøen lake, the structure serves as a modern reinterpretation of the traditional Norwegian gapahuk, or lean-to. It was designed in close collaboration with the client to serve a range of purposes, including a shelter, summer house, bath house, or grill shed. The cabin's design is heavily influenced by its surrounding landscape. The angled walls and roof help the small building blend seamlessly into the rugged, mountainous environment. A traditional turf roof provides insulation and further integrates the structure with the landscape by mimicking the natural greenery. The exterior is clad in dark brown stained wood, which was chosen to complement the existing main cabin on the property. Inside, the cabin is designed for both relaxation and appreciation of the outdoors. Large, floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors on the front facade can be opened up, blurring the line between inside and out and offering expansive views of the lake and mountains. A built-in wood bench wraps around two sides of the room, providing ample seating that faces the view. A small, built-in fireplace adds warmth and a cozy focal point. The interior features simple wood finishes and stone flooring that continues out onto the terrace. Project credits Architects: Bergersen Arkitekter AS Photography: Kjetil Nordø Location: Trollheimen, Norway Project Year: 2017 Manufacturers: Bergene Holm AS (interior wood panels), Otretek AS (furniture carpenter), Profil Fasade AS and Windoor AS (glass panels and doors)

The Black Aurora Nook is a contemporary holiday cabin situated in the remote and rugged landscape of the Lofoten archipelago in northern Norway. Designed by Austrian architect Elisabeth Dirnbacher of Atelier Dirnbacher and completed in 2022, the 65 m² retreat offers a striking contrast of robust exteriors against a cozy and warm interior. Nestled between the vast Austnesfjord and the imposing Higravstinden, the cabin is a destination for families, couples, and nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the dramatic arctic scenery. The architecture is defined by a simple, cubature form that plays with the dimensions of the surrounding environment. Architect Elisabeth Dirnbacher was inspired by a summer trip to the region and aimed to create a unique holiday house that would complement the astonishing beauty of the islands. The black-stained, timber-framed cabin is designed to blend into the dark, mountainous landscape, while its interior opens up to provide a luxurious and immersive experience of nature. The interior of the Black Aurora Nook is a showcase of handcrafted woodwork and clever spatial design. The cabin is divided into two rectangular areas, but features varied ceiling heights ranging from two to five and a half meters, creating an exciting spatial experience. The main living space includes an open kitchen and a cozy sitting area with a wood-burning stove. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows provide a widescreen view of the fjord, the open sea, and the mountain. A staircase from the master bedroom leads to a gallery with a window bench, perfect for observing the northern lights or sea eagles. A second sleeping gallery for children is accessible by a ladder. Untreated wood, handcrafted by a local carpenter, is used throughout the cabin for wall paneling, built-in furniture, and a three-meter-high sliding door that can separate the dining room and master bedroom. The cabin was designed as a high-performance timber-framed construction with sustainability in mind. Comfort in the cold: Despite the harsh northern climate, the cabin is kept comfortable with a wood-burning stove and underfloor heating in the sleeping areas. The minimalist design, coupled with the natural weathering of the timber, helps the cabin settle naturally into its remote surroundings. Project credits Architect: Atelier Dirnbacher (Elisabeth Dirnbacher) Photography: Paul Sebesta Location: Lofoten, Norway Completion Year: 2022

The Micro Cabin 323SF is a tiny guest house designed and completed in 2014 by Brooklyn-based Breitner Ciaccia—Office of Architecture (BC—OA). Located in Montauk, New York, the cabin is situated on a compact 12' x 15' footprint on an existing foundation next to a main house. Despite its extremely small size, the cabin was designed to function like a full-sized home, showcasing clever space management and high-performance design. The central idea behind the Micro Cabin was to treat its small floor plan as a "jewel box," with every millimeter carefully considered for maximum functionality. The architects, Amy Breitner and Greg Ciaccia, utilized multi-functional surfaces and thoughtful interventions to make the space feel both efficient and expansive. A recessed floor in the living area allows for a generous, built-in lounge, creating a distinct zone for relaxation without visually dividing the room. The flue of a small wood-burning fireplace extends from floor to ceiling, drawing the eye upward and emphasizing the double-height space above the entry. A skylight further amplifies this effect, inviting natural light into the core of the cabin. The kitchen and storage areas are cleverly tucked beneath the staircase, making efficient use of every cubic foot. The exterior and interior are defined by a contrast of materials. The north and west facades are clad in solid, reclaimed hickory wood, providing privacy from the nearby main house. The east and south facades feature strategically placed windows that connect the interior with the surrounding national forest land. The cabin is purposefully integrated with its natural surroundings. The careful placement of windows provides framed views of the tranquility of the adjacent forest. The exterior cladding, which will weather over time, helps the cabin blend into its rustic setting. Project credits Architects: BC—OA (Breitner Ciaccia—Office of Architecture) Photographer: Amy Barkow Location: Montauk, New York Completion Year: 2014

Completed in 2014, the Eyrie Cabins are a pair of small, autonomous holiday homes designed by New Zealand-based Cheshire Architects. Sited on a grassy hill overlooking the Kaiwaka Harbour, near the Tasman Sea, the cabins were conceived as a polemic against the trend of overly large and ostentatious holiday homes. Each cabin measures just 29 square meters, embracing a minimalist philosophy to intensify the connection between occupant and nature. The design is a bold response to its isolated, pristine setting, with the two cabins deliberately positioned low on the slope rather than on the hilltop plot that was originally assigned. This decision was made to make the structures less conspicuous and to help them feel like an intimate part of the landscape rather than something that dominates it. The cabins are clad in burnt black timber, a treatment inspired by the abstract painter Kazimir Malevich. This creates a stark, monolithic form that contrasts dramatically with the vivid green of the hillside and helps the structures blend into the landscape. In a radical departure from traditional cabin design, the Eyrie Cabins have no doors. Entry is gained by climbing a series of boulders and entering through a pull-down window. This subversion of standard building language was intended to make the small structures feel like something more than just houses—like small, autonomous vessels. Large, oblong windows are strategically placed to frame specific views of the coast and the hillside, while solid side walls ensure privacy between the two cabins. This limited fenestration creates a deeply interior, contemplative experience, contrasting with the typical desire for "indoor-outdoor flow" in coastal architecture. The cabins embody a philosophical stance against architectural decadence. By using minimal materials and a compact form, the project advocates for a more thoughtful and humble vision for coastal architecture in New Zealand. While the cabins present a stark, matching exterior, their interiors are beautifully and uniquely individualized for the two separate clients. The interior design emphasizes luxury through thoughtful detailing rather than opulent size. Cabin 1: Features a small, brass-clad kitchen, adding a jewel-like touch of luxury to the dark space. Cabin 2: Showcases the rich grain of oiled jarrah wood, which contrasts with the lighter tones of standard construction plywood. The material palette is restrained but carefully selected to enhance the serene and introspective atmosphere. Project credits Architect: Cheshire Architects (led by Nat Cheshire and Ian Scott). Photography: Jeremy Toth.

Completed in 2015, the Summer House Gravråk project is a renovation and extension of a traditional "Nordlandshus" on a remote coastal site near Andopen, in the Flakstad municipality of Norway's Lofoten archipelago. Designed by Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk with his team, the 25-square-meter project successfully blends the rehabilitation of the old timber structure with a new, contemporary addition. The design is a sensitive and sophisticated response to the site's stunning yet demanding coastal climate, characterized by spectacular mountains and harsh winds. The original concept involved encasing the weathered timber core within a new protective shell, allowing the old house to stand freely inside. While this initial plan was modified, the final result still features a distinct and respectful relationship between the old and new elements. The built project focuses on the renovation of the existing house and the construction of a westward extension. The addition acts as a "pure extension," echoing the geometrical principles of the original structure, notably its asymmetrical dormer windows, which allow light into the loft and frame views of the landscape. To withstand the extreme wind conditions of the area, the structures are anchored using different methods. The pre-existing Nordlandshus is secured to the ground with guy wires, while the new prefabricated pine glulam extension is wind-anchored to an encompassing concrete slab, which provides a stabilizing counterweight. This structural duality highlights the architects' adaptive and thoughtful approach to construction in a challenging environment. The material palette chosen for the Summer House Gravråk is both humble and resilient, allowing the building to integrate with its natural surroundings. The addition is clad in untreated spruce, a material selected to develop a natural, gray patina over time as it is exposed to sun and rain. The roof is covered with standing seam zinc roofing, offering durability against the elements. The interior features birch plywood cladding and pine flooring, providing a warm and modern finish. The windows are a two-fold design, with aluminum frames on the exterior for protection and wood on the interior to match the warm timber finishes. An artwork titled "this must be the place" by Swedish artist Jan Håfstrøm is integrated into the design, adding a unique and personal touch. Project credits The project was executed by Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk's architectural team. Architectural team: Architect in charge: Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk Architects: Anette Bringsverd, Elisabeth Øymo, Halvard Amble, Hilde Rostadmo Client: The project was built for a young family. Windows: Velfac Roofing material: VMZINC Stove/fireplace: Brunner Artwork: Jan Håfstrøm

The Residential Barn is a 215 m² residential project located in the rural Reppischtal region, near Zurich, Switzerland. Designed and completed in 2022 by BE Architektur, the house reinterprets the traditional Swiss agricultural barn typology (known as a schüür) into a functional and sculptural family home. The design's main goal was to create a new home that respects and blends into its historical and agricultural context. BE Architektur's founder, Boris Egli, achieved this by taking typical barn characteristics and reinterpreting them in a modern way. From a distance, the house appears to be another unassuming outbuilding in the hamlet, but upon closer inspection, its contemporary nature is revealed. Key features of this reinterpretation include: Glazed spruce facade: The exterior is clad in the same type of timber used for traditional Swiss barns, but with a transparent glaze that allows the wood to weather naturally. Pitched tile roof: A classic pitched roof is topped with the same tile roofing as neighboring structures, helping the building blend in. Concealed fenestration: Operable windows are hidden behind wooden shutters, while large, fixed glazing is fronted by sliding wooden doors. This creates a cohesive, uniform facade that conceals the interior's domestic function. Inside, the house embraces a raw and unfinished aesthetic, using a minimalist material palette to create a series of interconnected, sculptural spaces. The interior functions, such as the bedrooms and closets, are housed within enclosed volumes that are "stacked" atop one another. This design recalls the idea of a barn as a storage space. The negative space created around these volumes forms a spacious, open living area with a sense of vertical and horizontal expanse. The interior features exposed concrete floors and walls finished with textured, light-grey plaster, creating a tactile and serene environment. The project showcases a blend of rustic inspiration with modern, sustainable techniques. A photovoltaic system is integrated onto the gently sloping concrete gable roof, ensuring the home's energy needs are met with solar power. The freestanding concrete two-car garage was built using the same timber formwork as the house's facade, creating visual continuity between the two structures. A raw steel beam is used as a minimalist gutter, extending beyond the base of the roof to define the structure's clean lines. Project credits Architects: BE Architektur GmbH, Boris Egli Architekt FH REG A SIA Principal Architect: Boris Egli Photography: Vito Stallone Location: Reppischtal, near Zurich, Switzerland Project Year: 2022

The "Cabin ANNA" is a versatile and innovative prefabricated dwelling designed by Dutch designer Caspar Schols. It is an evolution of a garden house Schols originally created for his mother in 2016, which was celebrated for its reconfigurable, sliding layers. The design allows inhabitants to interact with nature by adjusting the cabin's shells to suit different weather conditions, occasions, or moods. The cabin is defined by its two main sliding "shells" that move on a rail system. Outer shell: A protective, insulated wooden layer made of sustainable Accoya wood. Inner shell: A transparent glass layer featuring high-quality, double-glazed windows. This dynamic design allows for several different configurations: Fully closed: Both the wooden and glass shells are closed to create a cozy, insulated space. Glass mode: The wooden outer shell is retracted to reveal the inner glass shell, offering panoramic views while remaining protected from the elements. Open-air: Both shells are slid open to fully expose the interior to nature, creating an open-air living platform. The flexibility enables residents to live with the elements rather than against them, fostering a deep connection with nature. The modular design is built on a wooden platform and relies on high-quality, natural materials. The structure draws inspiration from railway station trusses, relying on the side walls for stability. Minimal ecological impact is ensured through a screw foundation, which allows the cabin to be disassembled and relocated without a trace. The interior features birch plywood, creating a warm, light-filled atmosphere. A fixed section of the cabin houses essential facilities, including a kitchen, shower, toilet, and storage space. A loft provides a second sleeping area. Some versions of the cabin include a sunken bathtub integrated into the floor, which can be concealed when not in use. Cabin ANNA can be equipped for off-grid living with a fire-heated boiler, a solar energy system, and a water treatment system. Project credits Designer: Caspar Schols. Company: Cabin ANNA.

Completed in 2022, Cottage JARO by Edit! architects is an 80-square-meter family house in Štěchovice, Czech Republic, that reimagines the traditional cottage aesthetic of the region with a contemporary approach. Situated on a steep, sloping site at the edge of a forest, the house's vertical form is designed to blend harmoniously with the natural landscape, minimizing the visual impact of human intervention. The design was developed in an intense dialogue with the art-loving owners, with meticulous attention paid to every detail. The three-story house features a distinctive, sculptural staircase that connects all the residential floors and acts as the central focal point of the interior. The lowest floor is occupied by a living room that connects directly with the garden. A vertical gallery connects the living room with the kitchen and dining area on the middle floor, creating a sense of openness and flow. The top floor features the main bedroom and facilities, offering expansive views of the valley and the Vltava River. The interior has a minimalist aesthetic, featuring white surfaces to serve as a backdrop for the owners' contemporary art collection. The exterior is clad in a wooden material that is intended to age and transform over time, much like the surrounding nature. The house's vertical form is a sensitive response to its sloped location, allowing it to integrate into the terrain rather than dominate it. The garden is also designed using simple, non-invasive principles and is divided into several functional zones for various outdoor activities. Special attention was paid to artisanal details, such as custom joinery and unique bathroom faucets, which are complemented by industrial-style windows reminiscent of old factories. Credits Architects: Edit! architects (Ivan Boroš, Juraj Calaj, Vítězslav Danda) Contractors: Block Building s.r.o. Landscape Consultants: Jitka Tomsová Locksmith work, staircase: ČEKOV s.r.o. Photography: Jan Pernekr

Designed by dot and associates and completed in 2020, House ½ is a 45-square-meter family home located in Taiwan. Built using a tongue and groove technique in cooperation with a carpentry factory in Kochi, Japan, the construction and interior living requirements were completed in just six weeks. The project's name comes from the philosophy of leaving the house "half empty" instead of cramming it with possessions, thereby focusing on sensory experiences and connections with the natural environment. The home is located on a heavily forested site, designed to integrate with the landscape without removing trees. A white pavilion near a temple at the entrance provides a resting area for visitors. The house is intended to be adaptable and transformative, promoting an "offline life" and connection to the outdoors with features like movable furniture, a barbecue grill that functions as a kitchen, and camping chairs for the living room. The interior has an open-plan layout, with a small loft above the main living area for sleeping. A large central pillar in front of the foyer supports the home and is meant to symbolize family unity. The roof was deliberately left exposed to the elements to assess its resilience in Taiwan's climate. Camphor wood chips surrounding the cabin provide fragrance and deter insects. The house is designed to withstand typhoons and requires only human assembly. Credits Architects: dot and associates Lead Architect: Hide Lin Photography: OS studio Location: Pingzhen District, Taoyuan City, Taiwan Year: 2020 Area: 45 m²

Completed in 2019, the 195-square-meter Bowentown Bach House by Edwards White Architects is a holiday home situated in the small coastal settlement of Bowentown, New Zealand, on the Bay of Plenty. The house was designed as a place of refuge, standing between a conventional seaside subdivision and a rugged coastal landscape of wind-swept dunes. The form of the dwelling takes inspiration from a piece of weathered, charred driftwood that has come to rest in the dunes. The exterior is defined by a singular, eroded angular shape clad in weathering black cedar, creating a sense of a protective shell. In contrast, the interior reveals warm, honey-toned timber linings, representing the untouched inner wood of the driftwood. The interior layout is bisected by a diagonal path that leads to a stairwell, taking guests up to the main elevated living space. From this raised position, the occupants can observe the sweeping views of the dunes and the sea. The dynamic geometry of the exterior is reflected in the interior, which features a variety of spatial experiences, from expansive, lofty areas to low, snug window seats. Openings and windows are strategically placed to maximize views of the natural environment, while solid walls on the opposite side provide refuge from the neighbouring suburbia. The warm, earthy colour palette of the materials, including rough-sawn timber flooring and black window frames, is chosen to allow the surrounding landscape to be the primary focus. Credits Architects: Edwards White Architects Lead Architect: Brian White Contractors: David Beattie Builders Engineering: Arnold and Johnstone Client: David Beattie Builders Team Member: Mark Parton Photography: Simon Wilson Manufacturers: Cosentino, Miele, APL NZ, Award Appliances, Colorsteel, Dryden Woodoil, Greens Tapware, Mohawk Flooring, Mr Ralph, Rosenfeld Kidson, Tile Space, Vintage Lighting, Warmington Fires

Constructed in 2019, the 87.23-square-meter House 8.5 is an atelier-style residence designed by the architecture studio DOG for a painter, his wife, child, and mother in Ninomiya, Japan. Situated along the historic Tokaido Road, the design is a poetic nod to the area's artistic heritage, a path once walked and drawn by the renowned ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige. The house presents a striking sculptural form, defined by its steep, sloping roof that doubles as a wall on the northern facade. In a neighborhood of relatively uniform three-story buildings, House 8.5 stands out through its dynamic form while maintaining a respectful scale. Its intriguing shape and visual angles vary depending on the viewer's position, offering a source of creative inspiration for the resident painter. The interior is cleverly organized to separate the family's living area from the artist's studio using a large, diagonal exhibition wall. This wall, oriented along the maximum diagonal length of the site, provides a prominent space for displaying the painter's work to both the family and the outside world. A glass entrance on the sloped facade offers a glimpse into the atelier from the street. The interplay between the diagonal exhibition wall and the sloped roof creates a three-dimensional effect, with spaces that feel alternately wide and narrow, high and low. Rooms are located on the ground floor, while the kitchen and living room are situated on the first floor. The interior features a white-tiled bathroom and finishes that complement the house's clean, geometric lines. Credits Architects: DOG (Ryutaro Saito + Shun Ide*Nikken Housing System) Structural Engineer: Yasuhiro Kaneda Builder: Shinshin Construction Co.,Ltd. Photographs: Satoshi Takae, Shinkenchiku Location: Ninomiya, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Year: 2019 Area: 87.23 m² (Total Floor) Manufacturers: Vectorworks, Duravit, Adobe, Aica Kogyo Compamy Limited, LIXIL, Nagoya Mosaic, Tile Park, Trimble Navigation, ikuta

Constructed in 2010, the 64-square-meter HAMRA is a summer house located on the island of Gotland, Sweden, designed by architecture studio DinellJohansson. The project was developed on a limited budget, which was compensated by a long construction period involving friends and builders. The final design mimics the barn-like quality that the clients initially wanted to convert but could not find on the market. Following local building traditions, the exterior features plastered walls, built from lightweight concrete blocks, and a 45-degree gable roof clad in corrugated Aluzink steel sheets. The dimensions of the house and its openings were carefully planned to fit the size of the masonry blocks, minimizing material waste. Four large, 2.4x2m openings are arranged with rotational symmetry, one on each facade, giving the house a lack of hierarchy and treating all sides equally. Three of these are glazed doors, and one is a fixed window. The interior of HAMRA is one open space dominated by two plywood volumes that create areas for sleeping and play. All service functions, including technical equipment, water, and drainage, are organized along a narrow, 90cm-wide strip that runs through the house. Spatial elements like a kitchen, fireplace, stairs, storage, and bookshelves are also located along this strip. The furniture was largely assembled from salvaged or reused building materials. A corrugated steel ceiling and plastered walls give the interior an "outside but inside" quality, complemented by plywood-clad sections around two skylights. The kitchen features a 3.1x0.9-meter concrete bench with an integrated fireplace, cast in-situ, with cupboards made from remaining formwork plywood. Credits Architects: DinellJohansson (Morten Johansson) Location: Gotland, Sweden Year: 2010 Photographs: Elisabeth Toll

Architect Cyril Chênebeau created the "Two Cabins On Stilts" (Les Cabanes Perchées) in Saint-Martin-Vésubie, France, near the Mercantour National Park, as immersive, all-season getaways. Completed in 2022, the project consists of two identical, nine-sided cabin volumes elevated on V-shaped larch stilts. The design balances a traditional gabled cabin form with a contemporary, "perched" habitat that minimizes its footprint on the forested site. Each cabin is shaped as a nine-sided prism with a double-sided gabled roof. The interior is spacious, with generous ceiling heights that follow the roofline. Large windows and strategically placed openings frame views of the surrounding larch forest, filtering light into the interior throughout the day. The living area is organized around a central hearth, with a visible and connected spa area that is also accessible from the large south-facing terrace. This provides a unique alpine experience for guests. The cabins are clad in dark, charred wood cladding, which echoes the color of the larch tree bark and helps the structures blend into their environment. The cabins are supported by a unique, three-dimensional wooden post structure made of stripped larch poles. The V-shaped posts evoke leaning tree trunks and reinforce the "perched" visual effect. This light-colored structural wood is left exposed to create a visual contrast with the dark facade. The interior features a warm, refined material palette with carefully selected coverings and furniture. Project team and credits Architect: Cyril Chênebeau. Client: SMDVVV (CG06). Photography: Aldo Amoretti. Graphic Design: Marc Miller.

The Woodland Cabin is a self-built, low-budget, 35-square-meter retreat in the village of Nouvelles, Belgium, designed and constructed by London-based architecture studio De Rosee Sa. The project showcases the studio's craftsmanship and creative use of materials by replacing a dilapidated structure with a modern guesthouse and studio. The cabin is a modern interpretation of a classic black hut found in rural areas, designed to blend into its fairytale-like surroundings. Its simple, lightweight, and economical design was inspired by the local rural vernacular and built to a tight budget. The structure is set on the edge of a wood next to a tranquil lake, with its openings strategically placed to frame views of the natural scenery. The timber cladding and exposed beams were milled from trees in the surrounding woods that had been damaged in a storm several years prior. The wood was blackened and sealed using a mixture of wood stain and recycled tractor engine oil, a low-cost, durable treatment typical of local agricultural buildings. The walls and floors are lined with Oriented Strand Board (OSB), a robust and cost-effective engineered panel that complements the exposed timber beams. The simple, open-plan interior is centered around a wood-burning stove and can be used for working, sleeping, and socializing. Exposed scissor rafters create a vaulted ceiling, making the small interior feel more spacious. Black-framed windows draw attention to the surrounding landscape, and glazed doors open onto a wraparound timber deck. A small bathroom is discreetly tucked into one corner, and a small, covered porch serves as a mudroom. Project credits Architects: De Rosee Sa. Project Lead: Max de Rosee, founder of the studio. Structural Engineers: Form Structural Design. Photography: Will Scott Photography.

Constructed in 2023, the Fritidsbolig, Slevik is a vacation home situated along a quiet residential street in the coastal village of Slevik, Norway. The project involved replacing a smaller, traditional 1950s cabin with a more functional, modern holiday home. Architect Eirik Rønning Andersen of ZIS AS designed the new cabin, drawing inspiration from the area's older architectural traditions. The design uses traditional building methods, featuring white-painted batten cladding and a roof pitch similar to historical buildings in the region. The roof eaves are minimal, giving the structure a clean, contemporary appearance. A key feature of the house is the strategic placement of windows to create visual connections, maximize views, and allow natural light to fill the interiors. This intentional use of light makes the interior feel expansive and spacious. Inside, the home is characterized by light-colored wood, creating a warm, airy atmosphere. In contrast, the kitchen features dark, lacquered benches and cabinets. The interior space is divided into different levels by a series of steps, with a raised living area situated above the bedrooms and bathroom. The main living space extends the full length of the cabin, stretching from gable to gable. The design also incorporates several custom-built details, including a site-specific staircase connecting the different levels and slatted wooden sections that add screening and depth. Credits Architect: Eirik Rønning Andersen of ZIS AS. General Contractor: Byggmester Egil Norli AS. Photography: Carlos Rollan.

Living Places Copenhagen, an experimental project by EFFEKT architects in collaboration with the VELUX Group, Artelia engineers, and Enemærke & Petersen contractors, was unveiled in April 2023 in Copenhagen's Jernbanebyen district. This prototype village demonstrates that it is already possible to build healthy, low-carbon, and affordable homes using readily available materials and existing construction techniques, rather than relying on future technology. The initiative was part of Copenhagen's tenure as UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023. The project showcases seven full-scale prototypes, comprising five open pavilions and two complete, ready-to-live-in homes. These are built based on five key principles that aim to create homes that are healthy, affordable, simple, scalable, and adaptable over time. A comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment was conducted for each material, design, and building technique to carefully evaluate and minimize its environmental impact. The result is a total CO2 footprint nearly three times lower than that of an average Danish house, while also ensuring a first-class indoor climate. The two completed homes are a timber frame house, built with standard wood construction, and a cross-laminated timber (CLT) house. Both are designed with a focus on healthy indoor environments, optimizing daylight, thermal comfort, acoustics, and air quality. Natural ventilation is prioritized wherever possible. To ensure affordability, the designs focus on simple and efficient construction methods that do not add significant cost. The modular approach also allows for future scalability and adaptability to different settings. The project's design also features a focus on disassembly, so that the village can be deconstructed and rebuilt elsewhere after its initial 3–5-year test period, further extending the lifespan of the materials. The concept's long-term goal is to inspire and challenge the building industry to adopt more sustainable practices. After 88 days of occupation by 98 guests, the project collected valuable data on indoor climate and occupant experience, confirming that what is good for the planet can also greatly benefit people. Credits Architects: EFFEKT Developers: The VELUX Group Engineers: Artelia Contractors: Enemærke & Petersen Photographer: Adam Mørk

The VR Cabin is a vacation refuge designed by Mexico City-based firm CRB Arquitectos. Completed in 2021, the 90 m² project is located in the forested area of Avándaro in Valle de Bravo, Mexico. The cabin was conceived as a space for its users to disconnect from city life and reconnect with the surrounding nature, with a design that emphasizes warmth, simplicity, and a seamless coexistence between the cabin and the forest. The core concept of the VR Cabin is to offer a serene escape where the user can fully experience the tranquility of their forested environment. This connection is achieved through a deliberate design approach: The cabin's exterior is a simple, solid block, which ensures the natural landscape remains the focal point. In contrast, the interior is richly lined with wood to create a warm and cozy atmosphere. The design blurs the line between indoor and outdoor spaces through a series of thoughtful connections. A large front terrace allows occupants to immerse themselves in the surrounding greenery, while the private area features a bathroom and dressing room that open directly to the outdoors. The 90 m² cabin features a simple yet highly functional layout that focuses on maximizing comfort and the connection with nature. The main living area is an open-plan space containing a lounge area with a fireplace, a bedroom space, and a small office area. A ladder provides access to an upper-level sleeping loft, with gabled wooden roofs that evoke the feeling of a classic Nordic cabin. A secluded space for contemplation is integrated into the design, surrounded by lush vegetation. A unique outdoor shower, also surrounded by foliage, provides a direct and immersive connection with the natural surroundings. The material choices for the VR Cabin were selected to create a warm, welcoming, and harmonious atmosphere that complements the natural setting. The extensive use of wood throughout the interior, including the gabled roofs of the loft, provides thermal comfort in Valle de Bravo's humid climate and creates a soft, cozy aesthetic. While the interior focuses on wood, the exterior is defined by a simple, solid block form. Although details on the specific exterior finish are limited, CRB Arquitectos frequently uses materials like earth-toned exposed concrete in their projects to allow structures to age naturally. Project Credits Architects: CRB Arquitectos (Mexico). Lead Architects: Sebastián Canales and Javier Rivero Borrell. Location: Avándaro, Valle de Bravo, Mexico. Area: 90 m². Year of Completion: 2021. Photographs: Arturo Arrieta. Manufacturers: Cemex, Grupo Arca.

Completed in 2021, Cabin Solena by Desterro Arquitetos is a 28-square-meter micro-dwelling and retreat located on a rural property in Flores da Cunha, Brazil. The clients sought a refuge that would allow for a deep connection with nature. The project is composed of two distinct volumes and is focused on immersing guests in the surrounding natural environment, which includes fruit trees, a small creek, and local wildlife. The main volume of the cabin features a gable roof that extends nearly to the ground, with floor-to-ceiling windows at either end providing expansive views of the natural scenery. Inside this space, a bed and a small kitchenette are arranged, along with a wood-burning stove for heating. A skylight in the roof allows for both daytime and nighttime sky viewing. A smaller, attached volume contains the bathroom, which also features a floor-to-ceiling window to connect the user with nature while showering. A commitment to integration with nature is highlighted by the architects' decision not to install blinds or curtains, allowing for a direct experience of the weather, time of day, and sounds of the outdoors. The program extends outdoors onto a deck, which features an outdoor table, grill, and a wood-fired hot tub. The use of fire is a key element of the experience, utilized in the hot tub, grill, and indoor stove. The entire interior is clad in wood, and the structure is supported by a metal frame that touches the ground at minimal points to respect the terrain. Credits Architects: Desterro Arquitetos (Arthur Lins, Felipe Cemin Finger, Vitor Sadowski, David Sadowski) Photography: Geórgia L. Thomé Location: Flores da Cunha, Brazil Year: 2021 Manufacturers: Garimpo Moderno, Isover - Saint Gobain, Lorenzetti, Metavilla, Tramontina

Designed by Toronto-based Dubbeldam Architecture + Design, the Bunkie On The Hill is a small, contemporary retreat completed in 2022. Located in the Muskoka region of Ontario, Canada, it is the smallest of several cabins on a family-owned property. It is tucked into the treeline on a steep slope, providing a quiet escape from the main, multi-generational family cottages below. The cabin reinterprets the traditional A-frame design with two intersecting, offset gables that create distinct volumes and elevations. This split-roof design, inspired by the layered shale rock formations found in the area, allows for carefully placed window openings that offer curated views of the forest and the lake. The design emphasizes both a strong connection to nature and a commitment to sustainability. The exterior features greyed wood siding and natural cedar soffits, which are intended to patina over time and blend further into the rustic landscape. The foundation consists of board-formed concrete that sits lightly on the existing rock contours, avoiding any need for invasive blasting. Inside, the home is functional despite its compact size, with built-in storage and benches. A variety of FSC-rated wood species line the interior, including oak flooring, maple plywood partitions, and Western red cedar slats for the ceiling, which echo the surrounding forest. The interior perimeter walls are clad in white wallboard. The home's layout features a main living area with a fireplace and a kitchen on the lower level, a bedroom with a large window and forest views at the rear, and an upper loft with a built-in desk and extra sleeping space. The large, geometric windows frame views, flood the interior with natural light, and create dramatic angular shadows that change throughout the day. In the evening, the warmly lit cedar interior transforms the cabin into a glowing lantern among the trees. Sustainable features include thickened walls with an R-value over 40, triple-glazed windows for passive insulation, and low-flow, low-energy fixtures. Credits Architects: Dubbeldam Architecture + Design Design Team: Heather Dubbeldam, Scott Sampson, Krystal Kramer Photography: Riley Snelling General Contractor: HLD Corporation (HLD Muskoka) Structural Engineer: Blackwell Structural Engineers

Constructed by architect Adam Pszczolkowski of Desea Architects in 2020, the Warsaw Weekend House is a 376-square-foot family retreat built on an allotment in Warsaw's Rakowiec district. Located on land leased from the city as part of a tradition of community gardens in Poland, the home serves as a much-needed escape from urban life. The garden site is secluded by a large hedge and filled with fruit trees, pines, and lilac bushes. The design is a clever mix of inspirations, combining the aesthetics of an old Swedish transistor radio with the natural setting. The house is a simple, rectangular box clad in glass and plywood framed by white high-pressure laminate panels. Its transparent nature makes it feel embedded within the lush greenery, creating a fluid connection between the indoors and outdoors. The large windows flood the interior with natural light, enhancing the sense of space. Inside, the warm, cohesive space features walls and a ceiling lined with raw plywood, a material chosen to age naturally and complement the surrounding trees. A low-maintenance epoxy resin floor further contributes to the home's elegant, contemporary feel. The open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area seamlessly connects with the outdoors. A smaller bedroom, often used by the owner's father, provides an option for overnight stays. Credits Architect: Adam Pszczolkowski, Desea Architects Photography: Hanna Dlugosz

Completed in 2024, INKYO is a small, 49-square-meter house in Daegu, South Korea, designed by DHPA. Created as a vacation home for an elderly couple who often visit Daegu, the project provides a comfortable and familiar space for them and their visiting family. The house is situated on an elevated eastern side of the plot to maximize yard space on the western side, which faces a public park. The design is notable for its dynamic, sloping roof, which was chosen to both prevent leaks and create an open, airy interior. The roof is cut into sections to allow natural sunlight to enter the bedrooms and bathrooms on the south side, reducing the need for artificial lighting and causing the internal atmosphere to shift throughout the day. The high-ceilinged living room is positioned to overlook the yard and the trees in the park beyond, enhancing the sense of openness. The interior layout was designed to maximize the feeling of space, with an open flow between the living room, kitchen, dining area, and a lofted attic. This design creates a minimalist and cohesive living environment. Credits Architects: DHPA (Dohyun Park) General Contractors: Etern A&C Structural Engineers: Wheean Structural Engineering Photographs: Kiwoong Hong

In 2015, Amsterdam-based CC-Studio unveiled "Thoreau's Cabin," a discreet off-grid shelter nestled within the expansive 5,900-acre Noorderpark in Utrecht, Netherlands. Conceived as a warm and dry retreat for the volunteers who maintain the park, the 35-square-meter cabin was designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, rather than dominate them. The cabin's design cleverly employs a strategy of camouflage, making its presence barely perceptible until one is close to it. The volume is shaped and the exterior is clad in a green aluminum envelope to allow it to be concealed by the forest's lush foliage. Two large sliding doors on one corner can be fully opened, seamlessly blending the interior with the surrounding meadow where sheep graze. This allows occupants to control their level of exposure to the outdoors. A sculptural hearth at the cabin's center supports a folding aluminum-clad roof structure, creating an open canopy that extends the protected space outwards. The cabin was built without requiring a permit because it replaced a pre-existing 1966 cottage of a similar size and function, which had served as a break and storage shelter for park maintenance. The new design, however, features thoughtful updates and sustainable touches. The cabin was intentionally designed without electricity or running water, reinforcing Thoreau's ideals of simplicity and self-sufficiency. A sculptural hearth functions as the central element, providing heat from local firewood. It serves as a combined kitchen and fireplace. The interior includes a washroom with a washbasin, a small storage area, and a larger general space centered around the stove. Wooden panels line the interior walls, providing a sense of warmth and natural elegance that contrasts with the minimalist metal exterior. Project credits The project was designed and executed by the team at CC-Studio. Architects: Peter Heideman and Danny van Kessel. Engineering: Gerald Lindner. Contractor: Van Zoelen bv.

House MM, designed by Chris Collaris Architects and completed in 2017, is a sustainable and minimalist dwelling in the north of Amsterdam, Netherlands. Working within the tight 60-square-meter footprint of a dilapidated brick house, the architects created a modern and deceptively spacious three-level home that prioritizes natural light, clean lines, and an integrated indoor-outdoor experience. The design of House MM is a masterclass in maximizing space within a small area while adhering to a passive-building philosophy. The structure's asymmetrical, steeply pitched roof is cantilevered, increasing the upper-level ceiling height and creating an extra mezzanine and attic, which adds to the perceived spaciousness of the interior. The exterior is entirely clad in blackened, wax-conserved pine, giving the home a sculptural, minimalist appearance. Details like the roof edges and gutters are integrated to keep the lines as clean as possible, creating a seamless, monolithic form. The design embraces passive building technology. The facades and roof are constructed with high-density insulated sandwich panels—materials typically used in large industrial buildings but tailored here for a smaller residential application. Full-height glazing at the rear of the house opens onto a terrace and garden, visually and physically extending the interior space outdoors. In a nod to the home's history, bricks from the original house were salvaged and reused to create a central core in the interior, anchoring the design in its past. A refined palette of materials enhances the home's contemporary feel while retaining a warm, natural character. Wax-conserved and black-stained pinewood was used for the facade and roof, providing a low-maintenance, elegant finish. Salvaged interior bricks form a central core, which houses a staircase and divides the living, kitchen, and dining areas. Birch multiplex cabinetry and built-in units are used for storage throughout the house. Polished concrete provides a sleek, modern, and durable finish. The central stair void, topped by a skylight, allows natural light to filter down and maximize the brightness of the ground floor. Project credits Architects: Chris Collaris Architects Client: Marjon Helder and Martin Blankendaal Photography: Tim Van de Velde Contractor: Hagoort Bouw B.V. Structural Engineer: Vissers & Vissers B.V. Interior Carpentry: Luc Schoenmakers Interieur/Decorbouw Manufacturers: Kingspan Insulated Panels, Kawneer, Waxedwood pine wood

The Lightbox is a 1,650-square-foot home and studio designed by Seattle-based architecture firm Bohlin Cywinski Jackson. Completed in 2015, the residence is nestled in a dense, coastal woodland on a peninsula south of British Columbia in Washington state. Designed for a photographer and his young family, the home is a celebration of light, shadows, and its tranquil forest setting. The house was created with a special appreciation for simplicity and well-crafted details, reflecting the photographer-owner's eye for light and composition. The core of the design is the juxtaposition of two contrasting volumes that are "zipped" together. A "glass cage" for living: A two-story, south-facing volume, enclosed in glass, serves as the main living space. This transparent section allows sunlight to filter through the trees, constantly changing throughout the day. A solid "black box" for privacy: The northern volume is a solid box, stained black with a traditional Finnish pine tar coating. This volume contains the stairs and other private areas, with narrow apertures that frame specific views of the old-growth Douglas firs and cedars. The house sits lightly on the land, accessed by a sloped boardwalk that crosses over the forest floor. The building's skin uses simple, affordable materials in a straightforward yet innovative way. An exposed wood structural frame supports a prefabricated, uniformly-sized aluminum window system to keep costs low. The interior further reinforces the connection to nature and the simple, robust design philosophy. Mezzanine level: Above the double-height living room, a mezzanine offers additional space while maintaining an open feel. The floors are polished concrete on the lower level and exposed wood car decking upstairs. Shelving is crafted from resawn timbers, and the interior uses wood slats to screen areas, a detail inspired by Japanese design. Hydronic radiant heat and antique cast-iron radiators efficiently keep the space warm, supplemented by a centrally located fireplace. Project credits Architects: Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, led by Peter Bohlin. Client: Photographer Nic Lehoux and his family. Photography: Nic Lehoux. Location: Point Roberts, Washington, USA. Awards: The project received a 2017 AIA Small Projects Award.

The Cabin Laksvatn is a 50 m² retreat located on the Lyngen Peninsula near Tromsø in northern Norway, in a region known for its dramatic alpine landscape. Designed by Oslo-based Hamran/Johansen Arkitekter and completed in 2014, the cabin provides a comfortable and spacious accommodation for a large family with a total of nine beds, despite its modest footprint. The design was a creative response to the challenge of accommodating many people on a tight budget. The architects cleverly limited the net floor area to 50 m² to comply with Norwegian building codes, which impose additional technical demands on larger cabins. The solution involved utilizing the space beneath the pitched roof, where the low ceiling height does not legally count as floor area. This loft space was ideally suited for sleeping quarters. The cabin presents a contemporary take on a traditional form, with its classic pitched roof complemented by the use of extra-wide wooden cladding and large windows. The exterior cladding is made from glulam panels treated with natural pine tar, which will weather over time to blend with the natural surroundings. The interior is functional and minimalist, featuring exposed timber framing and knot-free pine paneling. The ground floor is constructed from in-situ cast concrete, which follows the natural terrain and defines the transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. The loft space, measuring just 14 m², cleverly accommodates three single beds and two double beds. An additional double bed is located in a bedroom on the ground floor. To maximize light and create an immersive experience, the windows reach to the ceiling on the upper section, while their height variations at the bottom are strategically aligned with specific functions and views. A large window band offers panoramic mountain views in nearly every direction. A minimalist, cantilevered staircase with thin steel plates provides access to the loft, and an open steel grating on the upper level filters light from a skylight, emphasizing the cabin's verticality. The design draws on the features of a previous, dilapidated family cabin from 1942 that was on the same site, reinterpreting elements like its corner windows and exterior cladding. Project credits Architects: Hamran/Johansen Arkitekter (Lars Hamran and André Severin Johansen) Client: Hamran/Johansen Arkitekter AS Project Year: 2014 Location: Laksvatn, Tromsø, Norway Photographers: Ivan Brodey, André Severin Johansen Consultants: eStatikk AS

In 2022, Cazú Zegers Arquitectura introduced a sustainable, modular housing project in the commune of Lo Barnechea, Santiago, Chile, known as "Tiny House". This initiative, part of a larger plan for a small neighborhood called Pueblo La Dehesa, challenges traditional urban design by creating a system of prefabricated wooden homes that prioritize community, warmth, and a strong connection to nature. The project was inspired by "botanical shyness," a natural phenomenon where some tree canopies avoid touching, allowing each species to receive sunlight. This concept was applied to the master plan of Pueblo La Dehesa, organizing the houses and communal spaces in an organic, village-like cluster that fosters interaction and preserves open green areas. The design intentionally moves away from traditional, dense urbanization to promote a pedestrian-friendly environment immersed in a park-like setting. The project features three main types of prefabricated homes, each designed to maximize space and natural light: Type A: A 24.5 m² unit with one bedroom and one bathroom. Type B: A 49 m² or 69.02 m² unit with two bedrooms and one bathroom. Type C: A 63 m² unit with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. A focus on warm, natural, and sustainable materials defines the aesthetics of the Tiny House modules. The homes are primarily constructed from clear pine wood, giving them a cozy and natural feel. Architectural solutions were integrated to enhance the sense of spaciousness, such as invisible, frameless doors, large windows, and open layouts. A standout feature is the sculptural steel staircase, which is inspired by Japanese origami and contributes to the home's refined aesthetic. Built-in furniture, such as kitchen and bathroom components, was provided by manufacturers like Bontempo and MK. Project credits Architect: Cazú Zegers. Team of architects: Francisca Pereira, Francesca Fazzalari, Isabella Massa, Alejandra Sepúlveda, Carolina Wenzel, Claudia Fuentes, and Dominga Natho Anwandter. Interior design: Zegers Y Figueroa. Structural engineer: Cristián Sepúlveda. Main construction and modular units: RCM. Photography: Marcos Zegers. Furniture: Bontempo. Kitchen and bath artifacts: MK.

The House Giacomelli Schmid, completed in 2016 by Swiss firm Caminada Architekten, is a distinctive family home located in the village of Trin-Mulin, in the Grisons region of Switzerland. Situated amongst a loose arrangement of single-family houses, the house stands out with its powerful yet minimalist architecture, set against the backdrop of an impressive mountain range. The design, characterized by a "hard shell, soft core" approach, is a thoughtful response to both its alpine environment and the clients' needs. The exterior presents a fortress-like shell of raw, vertically-formed concrete. The light color of the concrete is a result of using local cement, giving the structure an authentic, unpretentious feel. This robust outer shell is designed to withstand the harsh alpine climate. In contrast, the interior features a fully wooden core, bringing warmth and a sense of coziness to the living spaces. The house has an almost square footprint and a steep gable roof, reflecting a contemporary take on traditional alpine building. The design is precisely placed within the landscape to maximize views of the impressive mountain scenery. A single-storey annex flanks the main building, anchoring it into the sloping terrain. This addition not only defines the main entrance but also provides two covered parking spaces. The interior is organized around the self-supporting wooden core, which serves as a central hub for the split-level arrangement of the rooms. Rooms are arranged on half-stories around the central core, creating a continuous flow of space and providing access to the different areas. The living and dining room, kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a dressing room, a library, a studio, and a wine cellar are all cleverly integrated into this layout. The warm, natural wood of the core contrasts beautifully with the raw concrete of the exterior and ceilings, creating a rich tactile and visual experience. The formwork pattern of the concrete walls was created using vertically arranged, standardized large-area formwork, showcasing a meticulous attention to detail. Project credits Architects: Caminada Architekten Photography: Gaudenz Danuser Location: Trin-Mulin, Switzerland Project Year: 2016

The Selestranda House is a residential renovation and extension project located in Time, Norway, near the scenic southwest coast. Completed in 2016 by bark arkitekter, the project breathed new life into a 50-year-old cottage, originally designed in 1961 by architect Atle Sørby. The renovation successfully balanced the building's historical integrity with the functional demands of modern living. The house sits on a relatively flat plot surrounded by the distinctive landscape of the region, featuring long sloping fields, beaches, and dunes separated by old drystone walls. Its proximity to the shoreline places it within a landscape-preservation area, which meant the architects worked closely with local authorities during the building process. The architectural approach involved respecting the original design while modernizing the interior and expanding the living space. The cottage's original pitched roof with pulled-down gables, a reinterpretation of the traditional "Jærhus" typology, was preserved. This design is crucial for withstanding the harsh local weather conditions. To maintain this connection to the past, local craftsmen carefully removed, stored, and re-laid the original roof tiles, which were sourced from local brick factories. The renovation involved a strategic reorganization of the interior space. The walls and ceiling of the main volume were opened up to create a single large, open-plan common area. This space now accommodates the living, dining, and kitchen functions, creating a bright and expansive atmosphere. A new 88 m² annex was constructed to house private functions. This addition includes a bedroom, a bathroom, and a storage room, allowing for a clearer separation of public and private zones within the home. Large glass windows were installed to maximize natural light and offer the homeowners uninterrupted views of the surrounding coastal scenery. The interior features a minimalist, no-frills aesthetic, with a neutral color palette and light timber finishes creating a calm and functional living space. The architects focused on simple, high-quality materials to complement the building's modest scale. Project credits Architects: bark arkitekter Architect in Charge: Katrine Grimnes Original Architect: Atle Sørby (1961) Location: Time, Norway Project Year: 2016 Photographs: Lise Bjelland Manufacturers: Minera, E.W. Andersen, Hamran Kjøkken, Riska Sagbruk, Vikeså Trevare

The Granny Pad, by Seattle-based Best Practice Architecture, is an innovative accessory dwelling unit (ADU) created from a converted backyard garage. Completed in 2018, the 571-square-foot project offers a solution for multigenerational living in cities with limited housing options, providing a safe, accessible, and private home for an aging family member. The project was designed with both immediate and future needs in mind. To accommodate the decreased mobility of the elderly family member, the entire living area was designed on a single level. The layout flows seamlessly from the entry and kitchen to the bedroom and bathroom. To prevent the small space from feeling cramped, the design incorporates a number of strategies to increase the perception of volume. Exposed rafters emphasize the high ceilings, and strategically placed skylights and windows flood the While the design is currently optimized for a single occupant, the architects considered its long-term potential. The lofted area above the bathroom, currently used for storage, could be converted into an office, a sleeping space, or a creative studio in the future. This adaptability future-proofs the investment and offers flexible housing options for the family. The architects creatively worked with the site's natural six-foot slope, building the Granny Pad into the hill. This allowed for the inclusion of a lofted space and a private back deck connecting to the unit. The Granny Pad is a thoughtful and functional conversion that makes the most of its small footprint. The garage door was removed and the original garage structure now serves as the entry, kitchen, and sitting room. The floor plan places the private areas—the bedroom, bathroom, and laundry—at the rear of the unit. A small, secluded deck and garden area provides a private outdoor retreat for the resident. Project credits Architects: Best Practice Architecture Contractor: Kable Design Build Photographer: Ed Sozinho Location: Seattle, Washington, USA Area: 571 sq ft Year of completion: 2018

Hemp House by earthtopeoplestudio is an eco-conscious rehabilitation of an abandoned 1930s cabin in the Schoharie Valley, New York, led by Brittany and Jordan Weller, who subsequently founded the design studio Earth to People. The couple originally intended to build a new straw-bale house but instead chose a mindful, preservation-focused approach to revive the existing, dilapidated structure. The renovation was performed on a modest budget, prioritizing the use of locally sourced materials and salvaged items from the property itself, including fieldstone. The design philosophy focused on respecting the past to build a better, more sustainable future, challenging conventional, modern building standards. Materials were selected based on their regional availability and sustainable qualities. For instance, Eastern White Pine and Eastern Cedar were used for their proximity, reducing transport-related environmental impact. Charring the exterior timber using a slow, meditative, on-site process—rather than automated, high-heat methods—protected the wood naturally against decay, insects, and weather, while providing fire resistance. A final coat of natural tung oil was applied with assistance from the owners' children. The home's most significant sustainable upgrade, and the source of its name, is the addition of zero-carbon, plant-based hemp insulation. The insulation was applied in the form of hempcrete, a breathable material made from the woody core of the hemp plant mixed with a lime binder. This natural mixture regulates interior temperature and humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture, reducing the risk of mold and eliminating the need for plastic or vapor barriers. Inside, the cabin features a warm and inviting atmosphere, in contrast to its weathered exterior. Credits Design and Renovation: Earth to People Studio (Brittany Weller and Jordan Weller) Photography: Capture: Catskills Styling Assistance: Ashley Cheeks

Located in Matanzas, Chile, the cabins La Loica and La Tagua were designed by Croxatto y Opazo Arquitectos as minimalist holiday homes that blend with the surrounding coastal environment. The project is defined by its strategic position on a steep, wind-swept hill, offering expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. The project's design focused on creating small-footprint volumes that respect the natural landscape while maximizing coastal views. Named after native bird species—La Loica and La Tagua—the cabins use vertically stacked rooms to create a lookout-tower effect. The cabins are situated on Lagunilla hill in Matanzas, Navidad, approximately 80 meters above sea level and 2.5 hours from Santiago. From this vantage point, they overlook the "Lobera," a large rock formation in the The cabins are built entirely of wood, using a timber pylon structure to support the main platform on the steep terrain. The exterior cladding is made from reclaimed oak sleepers treated with petroleum oils to protect against marine corrosion. Interiors feature a limited palette of light-colored wood, creating a warm, simple, and spacious atmosphere. The living area, kitchen, and bathroom are located on the main floor, with a ladder leading to the bedroom in the loft. Large, west-facing windows enhance the feeling of hovering over the ocean and dominate the horizon. North-facing terraces extend the interior spaces and are positioned to provide a shield against the region's strong southwest winds. To combat the small footprint (La Loica at 20 m² and La Tagua at 25 m²), the double-height living room creates a perception of more expansive space. The project initially operated off-grid, requiring the use of a water tank and electric generator for the construction process. The cabins were designed for two different clients, and the firm’s main goal was to connect the inhabitants with nature. Project credits Architects: Croxatto y Opazo Arquitectos. Lead Architects: Nicolás Opazo Marchetti and Felipe Croxatto Viviani. Photography: Cristóbal Palma / Estudio Palma.

Nestled in the picturesque hills of Vienna, the Villa Minimale is a remarkable project by Clemens Kirsch Architektur that redefines the concept of a tiny home. Built as a summer retreat and allotment house for a family of four, the 35-square-meter structure demonstrates maximum efficiency and thoughtful design within strict building limitations. The project harmonizes a deep connection with nature and draws inspiration from architectural masterpieces, creating a space that feels both innovative and timeless. The Villa Minimale's design concept was born from a unique fusion of two architectural inspirations: Villa Rotonda (Andrea Palladio): The Palladian influence is evident in the project's centralized plan and symmetrical layout. Kings Road House (R. M. Schindler): The Los Angeles home's spirit is echoed in the use of four distinct volumes and the creative spatial arrangement. The house is composed of four identical, prefabricated wooden "sheds" arranged in a windmill-like formation around a central, circular air space. This innovative layout maximizes natural light and ventilation while blurring the lines between the interior and exterior. A prominent central oculus or skylight allows for views of the starry night sky from the upper-level sleeping areas. Despite being constrained by local regulations that limit its footprint to 35 m² and its height to 5 meters, the Villa Minimale achieves exceptional spatial efficiency. The interior is expertly planned to serve a family of four. The central area features a dining space, surrounded by a kitchen, a bathroom, a toilet, and a cozy reading alcove. A staircase provides access to the upper level. The upper level contains three bunk beds, offering a "camping-like" feel that is accentuated by the skylight views. The exterior features prefabricated timber construction with light-glazed timber battens and a copper roof. The inner surfaces are lined with veneered marine pine plywood, creating a warm, natural, and inviting atmosphere. The design creates a seamless flow between indoors and outdoors, allowing views of the surrounding landscape in all four directions. Project credits Architects: Clemens Kirsch Architektur (Lead Architect: Clemens Kirsch). Client: Family K. Location: Vienna, Austria. Year of Completion: 2023. Area: 35 m². Photography: Herta Hurnaus.

The Tigín Tiny Home is an initiative launched in 2022 by Common Knowledge, an Irish non-profit social enterprise, to address Ireland's housing crisis. Designed as an oversized, transportable caravan, the Tigín—the Gaelic word for 'small cottage'—is an affordable, sustainable, and consciously designed housing alternative. Beyond simply selling the tiny homes, Common Knowledge's project empowers people by sharing the necessary construction skills through their educational programs. The Tigín Tiny Home is a compact yet airy micro-dwelling of 20 square meters with a smart, two-level layout. High ceilings and large, double-glazed windows create a sense of space and connectivity with nature. Kitchenette: Includes an oven, gas hobs, and a sink, with Iroko hardwood worktops. Seating/Sleeping Area: A window seat converts into a double bed for guests. Bathroom: A shower and a composting toilet enhance the home's self-sufficiency. Storage: Cleverly integrated shelves and cabinets provide ample storage. A ladder provides access to a cozy loft space large enough for a king-sized bed. Sustainable and locally-sourced materials The Tigín's construction focuses on minimizing its carbon footprint through the use of natural and locally-sourced materials. Corrugated hemp panels from Margent Farm provide a lightweight, biodegradable, and sustainable alternative to traditional cladding. The walls are insulated with breathable cork, which naturally regulates temperature and humidity. The floor is finished with natural rubber linoleum tiles. A timber frame provides the structural support. The tiny home is constructed on a custom-built, triple-axle trailer, making it mobile and highly adaptable. Its design prioritizes energy efficiency, with some reports suggesting it uses up to 30 percent less energy than a standard UK home, thanks to strategic glazing and thermal performance. Involved people and organizations Developer and Designer: Common Knowledge (Ireland). Co-Founders: Harrison Gardner, Fionn Kidney, Erin McClure, and Spider Hickman. Lead Designer: Shantanu Starick. Materials Partner (Hemp Cladding): Margent Farm (Cambridgeshire, UK), which pioneered the use of hemp in sustainable construction. Collaborators and Build Team: Nico Bigatti, Jordan Allen, Cillian O'Gaora, Ian Tobin, and Enda Grogan, along with numerous students from the Build School program. Photography: Shantanu Starick.

Constructed in 2014 by Chilean studio DRAA (del Rio Arquitectos Asociados) for a budget of just $15,000, the Charred Cabin is a 15-square-meter weekend retreat located on a historic mountain road in Olmué, Chile. Situated on a steep hillside, the cabin is elevated on stilts to maximize views of the surrounding coastal mountains and historic landscape. Its design was influenced by the site's unique history and melancholy atmosphere, serving as a minimalist mountain hideout for an academic couple. The exterior cladding is made from inexpensive pine planks that have been traditionally charred on-site. This natural, chemical-free process protects the wood from decay, rot, and insects, while also creating a distinct black aesthetic that helps the structure blend into the rugged terrain. The cabin is built from prefabricated structural insulated panels (SIPs), which helped keep costs down and allowed for quick, efficient assembly by a small team. The interior of the cabin is defined by its simplicity and warmth. Plywood panels line the walls, concealing pipes and electrical wiring while providing a cozy finish that contrasts with the exterior. The main living area features a high ceiling that amplifies the sense of space. A black steel ladder provides access to a mezzanine sleeping loft above the kitchenette and wet bath. Clerestory windows in the loft frame panoramic views of the mountains, while a large window in the living area focuses on the valley below. Credits Architects: Nicolas del Rio, Felipe Camus, DRAA Location: Olmué, Chile Area: 15 m² Year: 2014 Photographs: Felipe Camus Design Team: Nicolas del Rio, Felipe Camus Collaborators: Gonzalo Pulgar, Magdalena Besomi, Freddy Alvarez Construction: Hector, Felipe, Matias Molina, Tito Lizana, Sergio Ramirez Sr&Jr

Rural House #01 by Cristobal Vial Arquitectos is a 60-square-meter holiday home completed in 2020 near Matanzas, Chile. The modest, modular, and solar-powered structure is positioned on a hilly, forested terrain to capture distant views of the Pacific Ocean and optimize passive solar gains. The house is organized into three separate volumes connected by a central circulation space. This longitudinal layout follows the slope of the site, with "cuts" between the volumes allowing for north-south sightlines across the property. The three modules accommodate distinct programmatic functions: Public area: Contains the open-plan living room, kitchen, and dining area. Children's private area: Houses the children's bedrooms. Adults' private area: Contains the master bedroom. A west-facing terrace runs along the length of the house, providing a direct connection to the outdoors from all three modules. A broken gable roof structure envelops the three volumes, creating a unified form that dialogues with the existing terrain. The entire structure is made of dimensioned wood, with composite pillars, beams, and trusses left exposed to serve as the building's final expression. Partitions are constructed from Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), which offer high thermal performance. The exterior is clad in a rough horizontal shed siding. The walls and ceilings are finished with slotted plywood. The butterfly roof is equipped with photovoltaic panels, which supply all the electrical needs for the house. Elevated foundations minimize disturbance to the natural ground. The home's orientation and modular layout are designed to maximize sunlight and ventilation throughout the year. Project team and credits Architects: Cristobal Vial Arquitectos Lead Architect: Cristobal Vial Decombe Collaborators: Pablo Solís Structural Engineer: Soledad Torres Electrical & MEP: Dinamo Consultores Ltda Photovoltaic Installation: Joaquín Acuña Contractor: Punta Rural Photographs: Cristóbal Vial Decombe

The Huset i Landskabet (House in the Landscape), designed by Danish firm Claus Pryds Architects, is a gabled vacation home located on a southeast-facing slope overlooking the Hesselø Bay in Denmark. Completed in 2019, the house is celebrated for its sensitive integration into the hilly, coastal landscape, reflecting the firm's philosophy of creating "caring architecture" that forms a connection between place, material, and history. The house is designed as a contemporary interpretation of a traditional gabled home, but its form is meticulously adapted to its specific location. The building is positioned close to a steep northern slope, with large windows strategically placed to frame views over the surrounding landscape and bay, making the setting an integral part of the living experience. The interior is arranged as a split-level space, following the natural topography of the land. This creates distinct living zones while maintaining a fluid, open atmosphere and a continuous visual connection with the outdoors. The home features a complex, silvery gabled roofline that is both dramatic and subtle. A central, double-height living area gives way to smaller, more private spaces, with a large, elevated deck that extends the living space outdoors. The design relies on a restrained palette of materials chosen for their durability, elegance, and ability to harmonize with the natural environment. The facade is clad in silvery wood, giving the house a clean, weathered aesthetic that allows it to blend into the coastal landscape. The interior features wood throughout, including CLT (cross-laminated timber) walls and plywood finishes, which give the space a warm, natural, and minimalist feel. The interior design emphasizes clean lines and functional simplicity, ensuring that the focus remains on the expansive views and the surrounding nature. Project credits Architects: Claus Pryds Architects Photographer: Laura Stamer

Named after the suliformes genus of seabirds, the SULA cabin by architect Diana Salvador is a prefabricated, A-frame home designed for the unique environment of the Galápagos Islands. Completed in 2023 on Santa Cruz Island for a local family, the project showcases an innovative approach to sustainable construction by minimizing environmental impact in a delicate ecological region. The two-story, modular cabin was prefabricated over two months in Quito, Ecuador, before its 2,000 custom-made components of wood, metal, aluminum, and glass were shipped in containers to the island. The components, held together by over 17,000 screws and pins, were assembled on-site in just four weeks by a specialized team. This prefabrication process avoided construction site damage to the soil. Inspired by bioclimatic principles, the cabin was elevated off the ground to allow for a cooling air chamber beneath it. A double-layered wall and roof structure, along with perforated floors, promote natural cross-ventilation, ensuring a comfortable interior climate. The five main materials—wood, stone, metal, glass, and PVC—were chosen for their efficiency and minimal ecological footprint. The interior features plywood paneling, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that contrasts with the exterior. The main A-frame structure creates a double-height central space. A loft accessed by a sliding black metal ladder offers a flexible area for sleeping, working, or leisure. Large windows at each end of the cabin, along with two narrow windows on the sides, fill the space with natural light and frame views of the surrounding nature. The cabin was intentionally designed with scalability and relocation in mind, using gabions as foundations to further minimize the impact on the soil. Credits Architects: Diana Salvador Client: Catalina and family Prefabrication: Huaira Photography: JAG Studio Construction: Lahden Puurakentajat Transport: 2 trucks, 2 containers

The Green Cabin, designed by Daymark Design Incorporated, is a 576-square-foot, boat-access-only retreat located on Roberts Island in Georgian Bay, Ontario, Canada. Completed in 2024, the cabin serves as a seasonal extension to an existing cottage on the property. The cabin is a contemporary interpretation of traditional cottage aesthetics, respectfully designed to complement the existing structures on the island. It features a standing-seam metal cladding that creates a continuous surface from the roof to the walls, giving it a sleek, modern appearance. Situated on a rugged, rocky outcrop, the cabin is oriented to maximize views of the expansive Georgian Bay. Its position was carefully planned to meet zoning bylaws and avoid obstructing views from neighboring properties. The all-metal cladding was chosen for its durability, protecting the structure from the severe weather conditions of the Georgian Bay region, including high winds, heavy snow, and lake exposure. A thin steel drip edge acts as a protective "eyebrow" over windows, directing rain away from the facade. In contrast to the restrained exterior, the cabin's interior is colorful and playful, with sloped ceilings and large windows that create a vibrant atmosphere. The space is designed to be versatile, functioning as a guest room, a lounge, or a workspace. The cabin is elevated to protect it from fluctuating lake levels and built to withstand the region's extreme climate. Small awning windows framed in natural ash allow for cross-ventilation during the warmer seasons, acting as "portals" to the surrounding nature. A centrally located skylight illuminates the interior, enhancing the sense of space and tranquility. Project credits Architect: Daymark Design Incorporated. Interiors: Daymark Design Incorporated and Martha LA McCain. Photography: Adrian Ozimek. General Contractor: GB Heintzman Construction Ltd.. Structural Engineers: Tacoma Engineers. Mechanical Consultant: GTA Designs Inc.

Designed by Cloux Architecture, the Béllerine Cabin is a remarkable work of sustainable and sensitive architecture located in the Swiss Alps. This 65 m² retreat, completed in 2020, replaces a dilapidated barn on a summer pasture 1,070 meters above sea level. The project's philosophy is rooted in a respect for the landscape and a commitment to self-sufficiency, creating a modern shelter that honors the area's pastoral heritage. The design concept for the Béllerine Cabin evolved from the idea of a primitive shelter centered around a fireplace. It also draws inspiration from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's "Terre des Hommes," which speaks to human connection with the land. The cabin's form retains the memory of the barn it replaced, utilizing the same footprint and volume to preserve its place within the landscape. The interior is conceived as a "cavern-like room" with a central fireplace that radiates heat. The substantial internal mass absorbs and stores this heat, also keeping the space cool during warmer summer months. Large windows frame the dramatic and ever-changing views of the Rhône valley and Lake Léman, allowing minimal furnishings to focus attention on the natural surroundings. The cabin is entirely self-sufficient, relying on wood from the surrounding forest for heating and an autonomous system for water and electricity. Cloux Architecture's commitment to local sourcing and natural materials is evident throughout the construction. The frame was fabricated and insulated off-site using wood fiber from just five miles away. The roof is covered with untreated European larch shingles, a durable material that has been used for centuries. The external and internal cladding is made of untreated, local spruce sourced from a nearby mill. All cement used in the project was produced less than ten miles from the site. The cabin's design is integrated with its environment through bioclimatic strategies. Trees like wild cherry and sycamore on the western side of the building provide solar gain in winter while offering crucial shade in the summer. This natural shade helped justify the inclusion of large openings during the permitting process. Project Credits and Collaborators Architects: Cloux Architecture (Architects: David Cloux, Pavla Cloux). Photography: Tonatiuh Ambrosetti and David Cloux. Location: Bex, Switzerland. Area: 65 m². Year of Completion: 2020. Structure & Carpentry: Roger Moret. Shingle Roofers: Madeleine Schärer. Sanitary / Heating / Ventilation: Pierre Olivier Anex. Masonry: Veillard & Crausaz SA, Georges Crausaz. Surveyor: Fabrice Bovay. Lighting: Lightcenter Aosta IT, Elisa Pitassi. Manufacturers: Louis Poulsen, Rabotage du Rhône, Spartherm.

The Lookout Cabin, designed by Dana McCarter Architecture, is a small, two-story guest house located on Bruny Island off the coast of Tasmania, Australia. Situated on a grassy paddock, the cabin is designed to blend quietly into the island's unique coastal landscape while offering dramatic, uninterrupted views of the Tasman Sea. The cabin is designed for both immersion in nature and quiet refuge from the elements. The layout emphasizes a strong connection between the interior and the rugged, natural environment. With its materials chosen to weather and age gracefully, the cabin reinforces a sense of permanence and belonging within the Tasmanian landscape. The Lookout is situated on Lunawuni/Bruny Island, a location known for its windswept coastal beauty. This specific site allows the cabin to feel secluded while maximizing the spectacular ocean views. The exterior cladding is made from materials chosen for their resilience against the harsh coastal climate and their ability to age beautifully over time, helping the cabin to settle into the landscape. The interior palette is warm and durable, balancing exposed concrete elements with recycled local timbers for a tactile feel. The cabin spans two levels, ensuring that both the living and sleeping areas have expansive, uninterrupted ocean views. Oversized glass sliding doors open directly onto the rugged landscape, blurring the line between inside and out and heightening the connection to the sea. Despite its small size, the space was designed to be comfortable and functional for guest accommodation. The low-impact design of the structure allows for a unique, intimate experience of the native wildlife and vegetation. The design emphasizes observing the natural world from a position of warmth and safety. Project credits Architects: Dana McCarter Architecture. Principal: Dana McCarter. Photography: Adam Gibson.

Located in Otago, New Zealand, the Station Cabin by Crosson Architects involved the conversion of an existing shed on a remote sheep station into accommodation for farm workers and visiting guests. The project is known for its craftsmanship, compact efficiency, and its ability to provide a warm, protective interior set against the expansive, isolated landscape. The design contrasts the vast scale of the Otago sheep station with the compact and intricate interior of the cabin, evoking a feeling similar to being inside a sailboat on the open sea. It is both grounded on a hill and sheltered, providing a delightful and intimate retreat in the middle of a paddock. The thoughtful, efficient design economically uses every nook and cranny. The conversion retained the original solid timber floor and the plywood-lined, gabled walls and ceiling. The layout is tight and delicate, using well-crafted timber surfaces that exude an amber warmth. The interior spaces are intertwined to maximize functionality. A small loft area, accessible by a steel ladder, functions as an intimate, elevated observatory with treetop views. New cedar-lined walls and cedar cabinetry were integrated into the original structure. The original solid timber floor and gabled plywood ceiling were retained, maintaining the character of the existing shed. Project team and credits Architect: Crosson Architects Photographer: David Straight In 2018, the Station Cabin was a winner at the Southern Architecture Awards hosted by the NZ Institute of Architects (NZIA), in the Interior Architecture category. The jury noted the contrast between the project's compact interior and its expansive site.