House Tour: An Old-Fashioned Summer Camp, Redesigned For Winter

The article details the transformation of a 19th-century YWCA summer camp in Mill Valley, California, into a family home for Mark and Blythe Harris, a Manhattan couple. Initially hesitant about the property's dysfunctional state—a primary building on stilts connected by outdoor staircases to smaller structures on a steep slope—Mark Harris later had a change of heart, convinced they needed to purchase it despite their established life in New York City. The Harrises, both with jobs allowing remote work, were drawn to the rustic camp aesthetic, reminiscent of their childhood experiences. To undertake the extensive renovation, they enlisted architect Gil Schafer, known for his work on patrician estates, and interior designer Rita Konig. The couple sought Konig after admiring her ability to create characterful interiors, a challenge given they were starting from scratch with minimal possessions. The renovation itself was a three-year endeavor. Schafer faced the architectural challenge of increasing livable space without expanding the original footprint. This was achieved by excavating the slope and raising ceilings, effectively stretching the main house vertically and making every seemingly old element new. Mark Harris took a hands-on approach, meticulously overseeing details like irregularly spaced salvaged floorboards and sourcing vintage materials such as butcher block and handblown windowpanes. Konig's role involved curating objects that would infuse the home with character and warmth. Unlike clients who might prioritize larger elements, the Harrises appreciated her selections of unique, sometimes whimsical, details like a ship in a bottle or a stuffed seagull, understanding that these small touches contribute significantly to a home's story. The project evolved into a collaborative effort between Mark and Blythe, whose individual creative styles merged to form a cohesive "family style." Blythe noted her lawyer husband's unexpected design ideas, leading to a synergistic process. The finished home is presented as a testament to embracing serendipity and the profound impact a thoughtfully created space can have on a family's life. The article highlights the importance of allowing for unexpected elements in design and recognizing the value in transforming unconventional properties into cherished homes. The Harrises' journey illustrates how a historical, challenging property can be reimagined to meet contemporary family needs while preserving a sense of history and fostering a unique narrative through its design. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #NorthernCalifornia #HistoricPreservation #EclecticStyle #ArchitecturalTransformation #RitaKonig #GilSchafer

Architect Gil Schafer, alongside interior designer Rita Konig, undertook the ambitious task of transforming a dilapidated former YWCA summer camp in Mill Valley, California, into a charming family home for Mark and Blythe Harris. The initial impression of the property was one of disarray, despite its sprawling size and numerous buildings scattered across a sloped hill. The owners themselves initially dismissed the property, but a nocturnal vision by Mark solidified their decision to purchase it. The primary challenge for Schafer was to infuse the property with a cohesive and charming 'cottage feel' while addressing its structural and layout issues. One significant hurdle was the property's pre-existing maximum expansion, which prevented adding space outward or upward. Schafer creatively solved this by utilizing the space beneath the house, which was built on stilts on a downhill slope. This ingenious approach allowed them to excavate and construct a large family room and a guest suite directly beneath the main structure. Similarly, the area beneath the stilted garage was repurposed to create a 'snug,' a cozy room inspired by British pub back rooms, offering a secluded retreat for the adults. Another major layout problem was the absence of an internal staircase connecting the two levels of the main house. The original design necessitated going outside onto a deck and down unstable steps to move between floors. Schafer reimagined this connecting space, designing it to evoke the feeling of an old porch that had later been glassed-in. This renovation resulted in a top landing bathed in natural light through floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors, leading to a larger patio and creating an airy, sun-filled transition zone. To preserve the desired cottage aesthetic and prevent the renovation from stripping away the property's inherent charm, Schafer focused on incorporating materials that felt established and authentic. Reclaimed flooring and vintage wood paneling, sourced from various locations including the Pacific Northwest, North Carolina, and Canada, were integral to this vision. The application of these materials served both aesthetic and functional purposes; vertical wide planks in the downstairs family room visually increased ceiling height, horizontal boards on the staircase mimicked an exterior look, and wainscoting was used in hallways for durability and ease of cleaning. A consistent color palette, featuring hunter green in the dining room and white floors elsewhere, unified the diverse elements and contributed to the home's comfortable, 'old shoe' ambiance. Schafer also addressed the scale of individual rooms, some of which were smaller despite the overall spaciousness of the original building. He opened up ceilings to expose beams throughout, creating a more expansive, lofty feel. A dormer was strategically added to the kitchen's roof to introduce a shaft of light, and doorways were enhanced with transom windows to foster a sense of airiness. The renovation paid meticulous attention to small details, such as incorporating a mix of French and Dutch doors to allow for airflow while keeping children and pets secure. Mark Harris's collection of antique hardware, including old lockboxes and vintage knobs, was integrated throughout the house. Mother-of-pearl push-button light switches replaced standard plastic ones, harmonizing with the oxidized metals. A particularly enchanting feature is a secret opening connecting the kids' rooms, adding a whimsical element reminiscent of childhood magic, ultimately fulfilling the goal of creating a truly special family home. #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorDesign #FamilyHome #CottageStyle #AdaptiveReuse #VintageElements #SpaceMaximization

Perched on the serene edge of Squam Lake in New Hampshire, this weekend retreat, designed by Nina Farmer in collaboration with Charles R. Myer & Partners, epitomizes a nostalgic 'summer camp' aesthetic, offering a timeless escape from modern technology. The clients, a couple with teenage children from Boston, sought a tranquil haven for swimming, hiking, and reading, approximately a two-hour drive from their primary residence. Their frequent use of the lake, even during initial site meetings, underscored their desire for a deep connection with nature. The property's design adheres strictly to local building regulations, which mandate a long and low footprint to ensure the home blends seamlessly into the mountainous landscape and preserves the lake's natural beauty. This limitation resulted in a predominantly single-story structure, with only a bunk room situated at the top. The house features a shingle-style exterior, harmonizing with its surroundings and reflecting the area's historical association with academic families from Harvard who traditionally used the lake for camping and recreational activities. Nina Farmer's interior design approach began with the curation of rugs, many of which were custom-made, establishing a foundational color palette early in the design process. The living room, flanked by two large stone fireplaces and offering expansive lake views through numerous windows, was designed for comfort and relaxation, featuring a long upholstered seat ideal for reading. The home intentionally minimizes technology, with only one screen located in a small den, fostering an environment where activities like games, puzzles, and listening to records are prioritized. The bunk room, located upstairs, is designed for multi-generational use, with beds that can be reconfigured to accommodate entire families, evoking the communal feel of a summer camp dormitory. An additional guest house is situated above a separate barn on the property. The design incorporates a porch swing, inspired by the female client's childhood home, further enhancing the nostalgic theme. To complement the extensive use of pine paneling throughout the interiors, Farmer strategically introduced saturated colors such as indigo, reds, and ochres. This choice aimed to add depth and warmth, counteracting any potential lightness or fluffiness, and creating a cozier atmosphere through the interplay of color and pattern. Local reclaimed granite was utilized for the fireplaces, grounding the design in its regional context. The large sitting room, characterized by its vaulted pine ceiling, extends to a screened porch that is functional year-round. Given that the clients brought few personal belongings, every item was carefully selected. Farmer integrated pieces from both English sources, like Drummonds and Jamb, and local inspirations from the lake, ensuring that the furniture struck a balance between plush sophistication and relaxed comfort. The kitchen features simple Shaker-style cabinetry in walnut, pine, and green, enhanced by cast bronze handles that are both beautiful and understated. Open shelving allows for easy access to crockery and glassware. The interior curation also includes needlework quilts, traditional Welsh blankets, carved Alpine furniture, and local granite, all contributing to a "gemütlich" mood reminiscent of an Austrian chalet. The overall design successfully creates an alluring, technology-free retreat, promising a complete escape for its inhabitants. #NewHampshireHome #LakesideRetreat #SummerCampInspired #InteriorDesign #NostalgicDecor #ShingleStyleArchitecture #RusticElegance #TechFreeLiving #CustomRugs

The I/O Cabin, a holiday home designed by local studio Erling Berg, is situated on Norway's southern coast in Risør, offering ocean views. This wooden structure, clad in locally sourced spruce, is elevated from the ground by wooden pillars, adapting to the sloped terrain of the site. The design features three distinct volumes, interconnected by a wooden deck, forming a central atrium. This configuration aims to create dynamic "inside-outside" spaces, catering to Norway's rapidly changing climate, which often transitions between sunny and rainy periods within a single day. The studio's objective was to ensure easy access between indoor and outdoor areas, fostering seamless circular and visual connections. The site, characterized by its solid rock formation, provides extensive views towards the southwest coast, including the Skagerrak strait and Denmark. The cabin's volumes are supported by a wooden deck, which is raised above the ground by cross-laminated timber beams. These beams also extend to support the home's cantilevered roof, strategically shaped and placed to offer sun shading while allowing ample light into the central atrium and providing protection from rain. Erling Berg's architectural vision draws inspiration from both the horizontal lines of mid-century Californian architecture and traditional Norwegian building methods. Erling Berg, having spent significant time in California, emphasizes the fusion of functional aspects found in mid-century Californian homes with the practicalities of Norwegian vernacular architecture and its conventional construction techniques. The concept of the deck and roof framework, connected by vertical pillars extending to the untouched ground, was inspired by the larger steel frames prevalent in mid-century homes in the Los Angeles hills. Upon entering the I/O Cabin, the transitional indoor-outdoor atrium leads into the main living space, four bedrooms, and a shower area, all arranged in a U-shape around this central hub. Inside, the walls are finished with white-painted horizontal wood siding, while the ceilings and floors feature white oiled spruce timber. This material palette creates a warm yet bright aesthetic, characteristic of traditional Norwegian coastal cabins. The choice of materials is rooted in local, genuine resources and a color scheme commonly found in Norwegian summer houses from the 1950s and 60s. This functional palette combines the warmth of wood textures with white painted panels, contributing to an interior that feels cool, yet inviting and luminous. A prominent design element within the living room is a V-shaped timber column, which allows for a corner glass window. This feature maximizes views of the natural surroundings, further enhancing the cabin's "inside-outside" quality. Erling Berg, the founder of the Norwegian studio, previously worked with Mork-Ulnes Architects on projects such as a concrete guesthouse in California's wine country. Other notable architectural projects in Norway include Snøhetta's mass-timber home perched on a hillside in Kongsberg and Feste Landscape/Architecture's series of wooden cabins for hikers in the Agder region mountains. The photography for the I/O Cabin was carried out by Carlos Rollán. #HolidayHome #WoodenArchitecture #SpruceWood #NorwegianDesign #CoastalLiving #InsideOutsideLiving #CrossLaminatedTimber #MidCenturyModernInfluence #ErlingBerg

Marie Turner Carson of M. Elle Design and architect Bob White of Forest Studio collaborated to create a unique family getaway at Victory Ranch, near Deer Valley, Utah. The clients desired a "family camp" atmosphere, which was interpreted not as a rustic, traditional lodge, but as a luxurious yet comfortable design focusing on community, activities, and nature. The home's unconventional layout diverges from a typical lodge, featuring guest rooms designed as individual "cabins" to accommodate a multi-generational family and their guests. White's design emphasizes breaking down the traditional "big box" lodge into a compound of structures that integrate with the rolling landscape and are arranged around connecting courtyards. This innovative approach optimizes views while ensuring privacy and a continuous sense of discovery throughout the property. White conducted space planning on-site to frame views perfectly and envisioned the new build as a historic home that evolved over generations, bringing an authentic feel to the design. The collaboration with local builder Ivan Broman resulted in a structure that serves as an ideal backdrop for family gatherings, allowing everyone to feel at home with their own space, while also incorporating inventive and thoughtful details. The main entry of the house offers an intimate feel with a lower ceiling, providing a glimpse into a central courtyard rather than a dramatic, expansive entrance. This design choice encourages exploration and a gradual appreciation of the home's features. The living room, a central and open area, is anchored by a monumental plaster fireplace, which provides a visual anchor amidst painted boards. Steel elements like a sculptural wood wall and door casings balance the room. From the living room, residents can enjoy views of the river and a courtyard with a fire pit, creating a sense of connection to the outdoors. To enhance coziness, the living room features layered wool rugs and various textures in its furnishings, arranged in two sections for versatile seating. The dining room, notably dark and dramatic, is positioned on a cantilevered hallway that acts as a bridge connecting different areas of the house. This unique placement offers a slightly disorienting yet engaging experience, constantly relating to the exterior landscape. An outdoor dining area complements the interior, featuring a custom-made table large enough to seat at least 16 guests, mirroring the indoor dining capacity with flexible seating options. The kitchen is strategically located at the furthest point of the house to maximize views, offering a 180-degree panorama. Inspired by Edwin Lutyens' designs, it includes a round island and cabinetry that reinterpret Alpine style. Beyond the primary living spaces, the home includes a bar with reclaimed wine barrels and walnut panels for guests to carve their names, and a basement speakeasy, embracing a cozy, wood-clad Alpine aesthetic. The main bedroom offers serenity with a muted palette and stone walls that seamlessly blend the interior with the surrounding environment. For younger guests, there are tastefully designed bunkrooms, one with rush beds for girls and another with cot-like beds and canvas curtains for boys, evoking a summer camp feel. The design team meticulously sourced items like vintage trunks to complete the authentic, yet refined, camp aesthetic, ensuring every detail contributes to the overall theme of a luxurious and comfortable family retreat. #FamilyGetaway #LuxuryDesign #MountainHome #UtahArchitecture #MElleDesign #ForestStudio #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #AlpineStyle

The summer camp aesthetic in home decor is gaining popularity due to its ability to evoke feelings of nostalgia, youth, and simpler times. Interior design experts, including Max Humphrey, author of "Lodge: An Indoorsy Tour Of America’s National Parks," Tereasa Surratt, co-owner of Camp Wandawega, and designer Leanne Ford, highlight the appeal of this style. They explain that the aesthetic connects generations through shared experiences of summer camp and is inspired by natural materials and settings, such as log cabins, stone fireplaces, and picturesque views. To incorporate the summer camp aesthetic into a home, designers suggest several strategies. One key element is to "bring the outdoors in." This can be achieved literally with natural elements like plants and wood furniture, or more figuratively with botanical-inspired wallpapers and fabrics. Leanne Ford recommends foraging for branches and rocks to use as decor, fostering a sense of being grounded in nature within the home. Another important aspect is allowing Mother Nature to dictate material choices. When renovating, opting for natural materials like Roman clay or limewash finishes for walls, or river rocks for a fireplace hearth, can help achieve this aesthetic. Starting with a neutral foundation using muted, natural tones is recommended. This monochromatic base then serves as a canvas for layering, allowing for the addition of rugs, lighting, blankets, art, and natural elements without overwhelming the space. Layering in camp-inspired colors such as forest greens, golds, reds, and browns can enhance the theme. These colors are instantly recognizable as part of the summer camp palette. Incorporating secondhand and vintage finds is crucial for authenticity, as items sourced from antique shops add character and a sense of history. Vintage photographs, especially antique summer camp albums, are particularly effective as they are "time transporters and conversation starters," connecting residents to childhood memories. Decorating walls with quirky accessories like oars, arts and crafts, wonky ceramics, twigs, rocks, and sails contributes to the camp vibe. These items can be functional, as demonstrated at Camp Wandawega where decorative oars are also used by visitors. Retro coolers, vintage thermoses, lanterns, and lunch boxes can serve as decorative case pieces and accessories. Stocking up on classic wool blankets, such as those from Pendleton and Faribault, is also recommended, as they are both functional and iconic representations of the camp aesthetic. Finally, embracing texture is essential. Mixing various textures like wood, concrete, tile, and brass creates a cozy, lived-in feel. The camp aesthetic thrives on a mix-and-match approach, incorporating diverse patterns and colors like plaid, gingham, and stripes to evoke childhood summers or cozy winter nights. Authenticity is emphasized; designers caution against buying new knockoffs and instead encourage seeking out vintage originals from places like Etsy and eBay. A touch of kitsch can also be integrated, as long as it adds silliness, magic, and joy without being overdone.

The article explores how to recreate a summer camp decor aesthetic inspired by Jonathan Knight's "Farmhouse Fixer" show, focusing on budget-friendly methods. This design approach taps into childhood nostalgia, incorporating elements reminiscent of cabins, lodges, and lakeshores. The core idea is to achieve this whimsical look without extensive spending, utilizing a mix of nostalgic accessories, motifs, and specific design choices. Jonathan Knight's renovation project on "Farmhouse Fixer" serves as a primary example. The transformation of a tired cottage involved several key changes, starting with the exterior, which was updated from an unremarkable white to sun-bleached paint colors. Inside, the main living space was brightened by replacing old flooring with bold checkered tiles and removing a dropped ceiling to create a more open and illuminated area. The kitchen received layers of paint, and new furniture draped in cozy fabrics, alongside campy accessories, helped to unify the home's different sections. The bathroom was updated from pink porcelain to white fixtures, a tiled shower, and a soothing gray wall color, aligning with the overall camps-of-old theme. The finished product showcased a cohesive concept with a faded yet bright color palette extending throughout the indoors and outdoors. Key elements of the summer camp aesthetic highlighted in the article include retro Thermoses, buoys, and walls adorned with oars. Touchable fabrics, such as Hudson Bay-inspired blankets, calico patchwork shower curtains, and vintage sports jerseys, are emphasized as crucial for adding warmth and texture. These elements demonstrate how simple decorative items can significantly contribute to the theme. The article suggests that homeowners can adopt these tips for a cost-effective upgrade to their living spaces, using paint, inviting fabrics, and camp-inspired decor pieces. The summer camp flashback trend is characterized as a blend of rustic, vintage, and cabin vibes, distinguished by an intentional, slightly exaggerated sense of nostalgia and humor. For interiors, striped or plaid coverlets, throws, and plush cushions are recommended to transform beds or couches into style centerpieces, ideally pairing complementary patterns and colors. Wall decoration is presented as one of the easiest and most affordable ways to introduce this theme, with suggestions like maps, nature prints, pennants, and rough wood furniture or frames. Paint-by-number creations depicting wildlife or forested landscapes are also mentioned as nostalgic and visually appealing wall art. Unexpected decorative hangings like canoe paddles, badminton rackets, and first aid kits further enhance the ambiance. The article advises sourcing these items from garage sales, Goodwill, flea markets, and thrift stores for authentic vintage finds. For those with less time for physical treasure hunting, online platforms like Etsy are recommended for consistent supplies of vintage decor. Amazon is also cited as a budget-friendly source for items such as plaid blankets, faux-log pillows, and DIY paint-by-number kits, making the aesthetic accessible to a wider audience. This approach allows individuals to infuse their homes with a playful, nostalgic summer camp feel without a substantial financial investment. #FarmhouseFixer #SummerCampDecor #BudgetDecorating #WhimsicalHome #VintageHomeDesign #NostalgicAesthetic #DIYHomeDecor #InteriorDesignTrends #HomeRenovation

The article discusses the increasing popularity and practical benefits of installing yurts as backyard guest houses, offering a unique and versatile alternative to traditional guest room setups or costly prefab tiny homes. Interior designer Stefania Skrabak, founder of AHG Interiors, highlights five key advantages and provides guidance on installation and styling. First, yurts are notably easy to assemble and are considered temporary structures, which significantly reduces the legal complexities and zoning hurdles often associated with permanent constructions. A yurt can be put together in as little as four hours by experienced individuals, and they are lightweight, airy, and can be relocated as needed. The main construction challenge lies in building a sturdy, round platform that serves as the foundation and houses electrical wiring, often requiring professional carpentry skills. Second, yurts are designed to be weatherproof, allowing them to be utilized year-round. Skrabak notes that the design adaptability enables the yurt to transform from a cozy, cabin-like space in winter, perhaps with a wood-burning stove, to an open, breezy loft in summer by adjusting its walls. This flexibility ensures comfort for guests regardless of the season. Third, yurts offer a unique opportunity to immerse guests in nature. The movable walls allow the sounds and atmosphere of the natural surroundings to permeate the space, providing a tranquil and sensory experience. Proper placement is crucial to maximize these benefits, suggesting locations with nice views, adequate shade, and good air circulation. Fourth, yurts are highly adaptable to various design styles. Skrabak emphasizes their timeless design, which can be furnished to reflect diverse aesthetics such as midcentury, safari, or traditional, as well as being particularly suited for more rustic and bohemian themes with a refined touch. To ensure guest comfort, interior elements typically found in a well-appointed guest room, such as bedside tables, good lighting, a sitting area, and even a mini-fridge, can be added. Finally, purchasing a yurt is convenient and accessible, with various sizing options available online. High-end yurt kits can start around $5,000, while more budget-friendly options can be found on platforms like Amazon. This accessibility makes yurts an attractive option for homeowners looking to provide private and comfortable accommodations for their guests with minimal fuss. #YurtGuestHouse #BackyardLiving #OutdoorSpace #GuestAccommodation #HomeDesignTrends #TemporaryStructures #DIYHomeProjects #Glamping

This article showcases 12 modern ski chalets across various locations, each embodying unique design elements and offering luxurious winter retreats. The collection begins with an Aspen, Colorado, ski chalet redesigned by Ghislaine Viñas and S2 Architects, which transformed a three-level, nearly 6,000-square-foot structure. The chalet's low-pitched hipped roof was replaced with a contemporary gabled one, extending to create deep eaves over a cantilevered balcony. Inspired by Aspen's early Swedish settlers, traditional Alpine architecture, and vintage ski-bum culture, the southern facade features expansive glass, offering views of the snowy landscape. Another Aspen property, a three-level rustic-chic ski chalet, underwent modernization by Rowland+Broughton. This 1990s stone-and-glass dwelling, known for its sensitive integration with mountain surroundings, received architectural interventions such as enlarged, view-enhancing windows and sliding doors, alongside meticulous editing of existing glazing mullions. In Baie-Saint-Paul, Canada, Chalet Bertha, designed by Perron, is situated on a hillside in the Laurentian Mountains. This 7,500-square-foot snow chalet features clean lines, inviting textures, and abundant natural light. Its design, inspired by Germanic mythology's Alpine goddess, aims to evoke a "winter spirit indoors" warmed by human connection. The three-level structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding forest and the Saint Lawrence River. The article then moves to Norway, where Snorre Stinessen Architecture conceived a ski chalet-style lodge in the Lyngen Alps. Originally conceptualized as a cabin, it evolved into a luxurious hospitality destination for guests seeking world-class skiing and glacier trekking. The design emphasizes a connection with the landscape through simple, earthy materials and floor-to-ceiling windows providing panoramic views. A rustic cabin in Breckenridge, Colorado, renovated by Amy Pigliacampo, blends old and new. This 1976-built A-frame ski chalet, located at an elevation of 11,000 feet, underwent a significant transformation. Pigliacampo painted the original pine paneling white, opened up the space with a new window above the kitchen, and incorporated materials like cane, caramel leather, creamy wool, and various wood tones to achieve a "1970s Modern Alpine Chalet" aesthetic. Studio Shoo designed a hotel in Kogalym, Western Siberia, for Ibis Styles. This 7,600-square-foot property, conceived as a winter wonderland, draws inspiration from the region's subarctic climate. The Moxy Banff, formerly the Voyager Inn, is a Canadian ski lodge that received a $30 million overhaul by Workshop/APD and Metafor. Built in 1964, the motor lodge was revitalized to combine the Moxy brand's playful personality, Banff's outdoor spirit, and its mid-century architectural roots. In Park City, Utah, a property by CLB Architects and Iluminus co-founder David Ostrander offers striking views of the Wasatch Mountains. The design utilizes a material palette established by the building's exterior, including Croatian limestone, shou sugi ban cedar cladding, steel-framed windows, and a copper roof. A unique "pop-up perch" provides 360-degree views, reminiscent of forest-fire watchtowers. Loren Daye of Studio Love is Enough transformed a Hudson Valley country inn into the Alpine-inspired Little Cat Lodge, a 14-room ski hotel, tavern, and bar. The subtle makeover includes reclaimed mushroom box-clad walls, checkered daybeds, Isamu Noguchi lanterns, and custom maple furniture. In Truckee, California, a Martis Camp retreat designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson and the Wiseman Group is a 12,200-square-foot, three-level ski residence positioned to take advantage of Pacific Crest Trail views. The west-facing facade is almost entirely glass, complemented by overlapping cedar screens for privacy. The article also highlights two mid-century buildings by Herbert Bayer at the Aspen Institute in Colorado. The 1973 Boettcher Building was renovated by Rowland+Broughton, while the three International Style "ski chalets" for the Aspen Meadows Resort had their interiors reinvented by Michael Suomi, who incorporated legacy furniture pieces referencing Bauhaus origins. Finally, a single-story glass house by ACDF Architecture in Quebec’s Lanaudière region emphasizes its natural surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows maximize natural light and offer sweeping views. The interior features minimal furniture, muted tones, polished concrete flooring, and wooden plank ceilings with gaps to soften direct sunlight, creating spaces for both connection and privacy for a young family. #SkiChalets #WinterGetaway #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #AlpineDesign #RusticChic #SustainableDesign #GlassHouses

This article presents a virtual tour of 16 distinct ski cabins, each offering a unique design approach and integration with its natural surroundings. The selection highlights diverse architectural styles, from traditional chalets to modern, energy-efficient structures, across various snowy landscapes in North America and Europe. The first featured cabin, Nooq House in Whitefish, Montana, designed by Montana Creative architecture + design, showcases Scandinavian influences with its gabled sections, suspended fireplace, cathedral ceilings, and expansive windows that frame the Rocky Mountains. Owners Alex Strohl and Andrea Dabene offer it for rent while working on another project. Following this, the Alpine Noir chalet in Mount Hood, Oregon, conceived by Casework, Keystone Architecture Planning & Project Management, and Ethan Beck Homes, draws inspiration from Amsterdam canal houses with its tall, skinny silhouette and custom soft black facade. The interior features a reverse layout with the living space at the top, emphasizing a "gezellig" (cozy) atmosphere with a black brick fireplace, fur throws, and a bespoke floral sectional. In Andermatt, Switzerland, Nossenhaus, a 17th-century cottage, underwent a revival by Jonathan Tuckey Design and Ruedi Kreienbühl. The renovation removed newer additions, restoring its original character while incorporating modern elements like an energy-efficient wood-tiled roof and larch planking. The Gilbert House near Whistler and Blackcomb ski areas in British Columbia, by Evoke International Design, features a vertical layout on a steep site, clad in concrete and matte black cedar. Its bright interiors, with pale oak planks, direct focus to the forest views through floor-to-ceiling windows, complemented by a cantilevered upper floor with a terrace. La Cabin Ride & Sleep, an A-Frame in Lac-Beauport, Québec, designed by Marie-Catherine P. Émond of M4 Architecture, is a 256-square-foot structure built by Nick Dignard. It features abundant natural light, window openings on the roof, and custom-built furniture. Next, the Skigard Hytte near Lillehammer, Norway, by Mork Ulnes Architects, is an unconventional log cabin using "skigard" split-rail construction. It is raised on columns, has a sod and grass roof, an oculus skylight, and a pine interior. The Lookout House near Lake Tahoe, California, by Faulkner Architects, is a contemporary cabin on a steep slope. It boasts a fire-resistant steel plate roof, insulated concrete walls, radiant-heated basalt floors, and a red-tinted glass column, creating a modern aesthetic with an American Southwest influence. Another British Columbia entry is the Solo House, an off-grid Passive House designed by Perkins & Will, intended as a pilot for an eco-friendly alpine settlement. It incorporates a steel roof, solar panels, wool-insulated walls, and locally harvested Douglas fir interiors. The Whitepod Eco-Luxury Hotel in Monthey, Switzerland, by Montalba Architects, offers prefabricated larch-clad chalets alongside geodesic domes. These low-impact structures are energy self-sufficient, featuring polished concrete flooring and distinct day and night zones. The Little Black House in Fayston, Vermont, designed by Elizabeth Herrmann Architecture + Design, is a compact 1,120-square-foot cabin near Sugarbush. Its black-stained exterior contrasts with a stripped-down interior of white walls and pale wood floors, utilizing local ash wood and large windows. In Québec, the Poisson Blanc cabin by Naturehumaine Architects is a monochrome, compact structure embedded on a slope, with white walls and ceilings and maple veneer, raw concrete, and ceramic tile accents. The Ejford Cabin on Hallvardøy Island, Norway, by Snorre Stinessen Architecture, features triple-glazed glass walls, capitalizing on passive solar conditions and thick insulation. It comprises two volumes, one for living and one for sleeping and a sauna, offering views of the fjord and mountains. The Z House in Camporosso, Italy, by GEZA, is a holiday home on a steep hilltop, featuring two interconnected concrete and wood-screened gable volumes that step down the slope, blending with the alpine vernacular. The interior utilizes Serizzo white granite, dark gray-painted European oak, and Swiss pine. A remodeled 1960s Swiss chalet by Frundgallina in the Swiss Jura Mountains is a 100% energy-efficient cabin with vertically laid fir planks and a folded stainless steel roof, characterized by four distinct entrances and integrating the outdoors. Finally, the Lake Cottage in Ontario, Canada, by UUFIE Architects, is a reinterpreted tree house with a steeply pitched, charred cedar-clad structure and a black steel roof. It features whimsical interior elements like a wood-burning fireplace with a house-shaped surround, a maple log staircase, and partially mirrored glass walls for camouflage and expansive views. #SkiCabins #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #MountainHomes #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #WinterRetreats #PrefabHomes #PassiveHouse

The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga offers a unique accommodation experience nestled within the natural landscape of Taronga Zoo Sydney. Guests can choose from a range of thoughtfully designed rooms, each offering distinct views and amenities. The retreat emphasizes luxury facilities combined with sustainable practices, ensuring a comfortable stay that also considers environmental impact. All accommodations feature spacious king or twin bedding, climate control (air conditioning and heating), elegant custom furniture, and sustainable amenities free from single-use plastics. Complimentary high-speed WiFi and flat-screen TVs are standard, providing options for relaxation amid the sounds of the Taronga sanctuary. The Bushland Room provides views of iconic Australian bushland, with native birds and flora visible from the windows. Packages for this room type typically include a Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast at Me-Gal restaurant, complimentary access to Taronga Zoo Sydney, and free parking. These rooms accommodate a maximum of two adults and one child, with options for interconnecting rooms for larger families with children aged 10 and over. Amenities include a king-size bed, an open-plan ensuite with a shower, a mini-bar menu, a pull-out trundle bed (suitable for children up to age six upon request), and a baby cot (also upon request). The Animal View Room offers direct views of the Wildlife Retreat's Sanctuary, a lush habitat where Australian animals reside just outside the window. Similar to the Bushland Room, packages include a Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast, zoo access, and parking. Room capacity and amenity details mirror those of the Bushland Room, including the availability of interconnecting rooms for families. The emphasis is on providing an immersive experience, bringing guests closer to the wildlife. For those seeking panoramic vistas, the Harbour View Room presents stunning sunrise views over Taronga Zoo Sydney, extending across Sydney Harbour to include the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The package inclusions for Harbour View Rooms are consistent with the other room types. These rooms also accommodate up to two adults and one child, with family-friendly options for interconnecting rooms. All standard amenities, such as the king-size bed, open-plan ensuite, and sustainable products, are provided. For an elevated experience, the Treetop Suites are the most spacious accommodation option, featuring panoramic views and an open-plan ensuite with a freestanding bathtub. These suites are designed for ultimate comfort and include the same package benefits as the other rooms. Treetop Suites can accommodate a maximum of three adults or two adults and one child. In addition to the standard amenities, they boast a custom king-size bed and the luxurious addition of a bathtub. The Wildlife Retreat also provides Accessible Rooms, specifically designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs. These four rooms include bathrooms and shower facilities suitable for wheelchair access. The N'Gurra Lounge and Me-Gal Restaurant also feature fully accessible toilets. The Sanctuary and Wollemi Tour are wheelchair accessible, and guests can obtain an accessible Zoo Map to navigate the zoo's paths. Accessible Rooms can accommodate up to three adults or two adults and one child, offering a king-size bed and a single roll-away bed upon request, alongside all other standard room amenities. #WildlifeRetreat #TarongaZooSydney #LuxuryAccommodation #SustainableTravel #AnimalViewRooms #HarbourViews #TreetopSuites #AccessibleAccommodation #ZooStay

Mona Nerenberg, owner of the chic home-design shop Bloom in Sag Harbor, New York, and her partner Lisa Bynon, a landscape designer, transformed a dilapidated 19th-century cottage, known as Redbrook, in North Sea, Hamptons, into their summer home. Despite Nerenberg's shop embodying a perfect aesthetic, her personal home is described as more relaxed and filled with friends, family, and pets. The couple, who previously lived in a smaller two-bedroom home in Sag Harbor, sought more space and discovered the three-acre property online. They were immediately captivated by the picturesque, albeit overgrown, cottage, which Nerenberg affectionately called a “sleeping beauty covered in vines.” The cottage, originally owned by the Geers family who operated a fish market on the property, offered sweeping views and no immediate neighbors. The previous owners’ neglect meant the house featured run-down bathrooms and kitchen, and an attic infested with hundreds of bats. However, Nerenberg and Bynon were undeterred. They addressed the bat issue, refurbished the floors, and moved in with their two Bengal cats. Nerenberg, known for her minimalist taste, aimed for a renovation that would preserve the house’s original character while modernizing its functionality. Mark Cunningham, an ELLE DECOR A-List member and a close friend who also designed Bloom, collaborated on the home's interior. With Cunningham's assistance, the bathrooms were updated, retaining the original claw-foot tub but incorporating new fittings and penny-tile floors. The kitchen, once dark and uninviting, was revitalized with new windows, a beamed ceiling, and reclaimed paint-spattered wood planks from the attic, which had once served as an art studio. Cunningham also sourced many home accessories, art, and vintage furniture pieces from Nerenberg's shop, creating a cohesive aesthetic between the store and the home. The home features items such as an 18th-century Swedish table, vintage Pierre Jeanneret chairs, and a circa-1940 Marolles lamp. Bynon primarily focused on transforming the neglected gardens. She cleared overgrown trees and bushes, revealing manicured lawns, hedge-framed sections with ferns and flowers, a large vegetable garden, and a chicken coop. A new orchard of fruit trees is also underway. Despite Nerenberg's initial inclination against electric lighting, Cunningham convinced her to install elegant plaster chandeliers in the dining room, highlighting her appreciation for beautifully crafted, simple items. The interiors strike a balance between elegant and beachy, combining white linen upholstery, antiques, and natural elements like baskets and apple-matting rugs. Michael Dweck artworks and a Ralph Lauren Home sofa also feature in the home. Nerenberg acknowledged that the house remains a work in progress, aspiring for a modern style that still embraces its unique quirks. The home is consistently filled with family and friends, reinforcing its role as a vibrant living space rather than a showroom. This transformation, published in the July/August 2016 issue of ELLE DECOR, showcases a personalized and evolving design journey, emphasizing that a home, unlike a perfectly curated shop, is meant to be lived in and continuously evolve. #HamptonsDesign #SummerHouse #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LandscapeDesign #VintageFurniture #MonaNerenberg #LisaBynon #MarkCunningham

The latest lookbook curated by Dezeen showcases a collection of eight Scandinavian summer houses distinguished by their extraordinary interiors. These vacation homes, located across Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, move beyond traditional cabin designs to present imaginative architectural and interior solutions. The lookbook is part of a series that offers visual inspiration from Dezeen's extensive archive, focusing on themes such as minimalist bedrooms, colorful resin floors, and statement staircases. The featured homes exemplify diverse approaches to modern Scandinavian summer living. Heatherhill Beach House in Denmark, designed by Norm Architects, incorporates a contemporary feel with a brick floor laid in a grid pattern, contrasting with traditional elements. Douglas fir wall paneling, a dolomite plaster fireplace, and a marble kitchen island define its interior. Saltviga House in Norway by Kolman Boye Architects creatively utilizes timber flooring offcuts, cladding its exterior in oak and furnishing its interior with waste Douglas fir, providing cabinet fronts and smooth screed floors, along with steeply sloping ceilings and expansive window walls. Förstberg Ling's House with a Hidden Atrium in Denmark features a secluded central courtyard accessible only through the toilet, with varying ceiling heights and a double-height main bedroom creating dramatic spatial experiences. Hee House in Sweden, by Studio Ellsinger, is characterized by its distinctive hat-shaped aluminum roof and high ceilings. The design cleverly integrates an expansive bookshelf wall to create split-level bedrooms and double-height living spaces, maximizing space with features like a built-in stove, compact kitchen, and corner bench. Mentze Ottenstein’s renovation of the Dinesen Country Home in Denmark, a 19th-century longhouse, introduces soft color tones and contemporary twists on period furniture. This guesthouse features a dark brown library with ash bookshelves, a forest-green kitchen, and pale yellow reception rooms. Vipp Cold Hawaii in Denmark, designed by Hahn Lavsen for the homeware brand Vipp, is organized around two large chimneys that divide the interior into three sections. The eastern section houses the living space and an anodized aluminum kitchen, with furniture in neutral shades mirroring the surrounding dune landscape. Cabin Nordmarka in Norway, by Rever & Drage, features a large, unusually shaped window that dictates its compact, open-plan layout. The dining area offers expansive forest views, while sleep spaces are strategically placed away from the window, and a bed platform provides under-floor storage. Finally, Villa Vassdal in Sweden, designed by Studio Holmberg, uses birch plywood for walls and built-in furniture to create a monolithic yet warm interior on a small Gothenburg archipelago island. Built-in bookshelves and soft furnishings add subtle color accents. This collection of summer houses highlights innovative design and thoughtful integration with nature, redefining the traditional Scandinavian summer retreat. #ScandinavianDesign #SummerHouses #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #NordicArchitecture #ContemporaryLiving #HolidayHomes #CabinDesign #VacationRetreats

This article highlights an atrium cabin designed by architect Erling Berg, situated on an untouched, sloped terrain along the southern coast of Norway. The cabin offers views of the ocean, with Denmark visible in the distance. Spanning 1,200 square feet, the structure is elevated on pillars, allowing it to float above the natural landscape of solid rock and local vegetation. The design comprises three distinct volumes interconnected by a wooden deck, which also floats above the sloped ground. This configuration creates an 'inside/outside' effect, maximizing the use of outdoor spaces for its function as a summer retreat. The cabin's design incorporates a shared, cantilevered roof that serves multiple purposes: it blocks direct sunlight, permits natural light to enter, and provides shelter for the shared outdoor areas from rain. The exterior is clad in locally sourced spruce siding, treated with an organic wood protection and gray pigments, which gives it a naturally weathered appearance from the outset. Inside, the walls feature white horizontal wood siding, complemented by a warmer-toned floor and ceiling made of white-oiled spruce, a color scheme that reflects traditional Norwegian coastal cabins. The structural system of the cabin is notable for its wooden pillars, which lift the building off the ground. These pillars are integrated with cross-laminated timber beams in the deck. This beam structure extends upwards to the roof, mirroring the structural beams in the deck. This design choice draws inspiration from mid-century steel-structured homes found in California, where the architect received his education. A V-shaped wood column supports the weight of the cantilevered roof. A large glass corner in the main living space further enhances the connection with the surrounding natural environment, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor living experience characteristic of the elevated cabin. #NorwegianArchitecture #CabinDesign #CoastalLiving #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableMaterials #ModernCabin #ArchitecturalInnovation #SummerHouse

This article details the design of a summer home on Lake George, specifically focusing on its indoor and outdoor kitchens and a butler's pantry, all engineered to accommodate extensive entertaining and large gatherings. Arthur Zobel of Zobel & Co. Kitchens, in collaboration with AJA Architecture & Planning and Hilltop Construction Company, designed the new-build residence with an emphasis on creating an enjoyable experience for both homeowners and guests. The indoor kitchen embodies a classic Adirondack design style, featuring Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry shaker-style cabinets painted in Benjamin Moore's Revere Pewter, complemented by Top Knobs Riverside hardware in a Honey Bronze finish. The cabinetry integrates paneled GE Monogram refrigerators, Miele dishwashers, and an XO beverage center, along with built-in GE wall ovens, warming drawers, and speed ovens. A custom Plain & Fancy wood surround conceals the ventilation hood above the GE range, flanked by two windows. Specialized organizational accessories, including spice racks, knife holders, and tray dividers, are integrated into the cabinetry, while a LeMans pull-out shelving system maximizes corner cabinet space. A narrow, custom floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinet utilizes otherwise overlooked space, offering ample storage for various pantry items. The upper cabinets are custom-fitted to accommodate the reclaimed timber beams that crisscross the ceiling, a technical design feature that bridges old and new materials and supports other Adirondack elements in the home, such as a stone-clad fireplace and a deer antler chandelier. The kitchen's expansive island provides additional seating and storage, housing a dishwasher, trash/recycling pull-out, and a 4-foot Create Good Sinks workstation sink with dual faucets, catering to multiple cooks. A second Kohler undermount sink on the perimeter includes a water filtration faucet and a sparkling water faucet for the homeowner's preference. Recognizing the family's dog, a dedicated pet feeding and storage cabinet was incorporated, complete with a pot filler for easy water refills. This cabinet also features built-in outlets for charging electronics. Caesarstone's Palm Shade quartz, known for its durability and ease of cleaning, is used for all countertops in the kitchen and butler's pantry, its milky white foundation with light greige veining harmonizing with the neutral, warm gray cabinetry. The butler's pantry, accessible from the kitchen via a pocket door with reeded glass, offers supplementary storage and houses an 18-inch GE column freezer and a second Miele dishwasher. Its Plain & Fancy base cabinetry, open shelving, and appliance panels are painted in Benjamin Moore's Wolf Gray, chosen to complement the blue/gray tones of the graphic tile floor. A white Nantucket Sinks fireclay apron-front sink and a white subway tile backsplash match the aesthetic of the main kitchen. The outdoor living space is equally crucial for entertaining. Zobel designed an outdoor kitchen beneath a second-floor bedroom, providing partial protection from the elements and allowing for the inclusion of a fan, heater, lights, and speakers in the ceiling. A nearly 8-foot ceiling-mounted Trade-Wind ventilation hood is custom-designed to manage smoke from the 36-inch Alfresco grill and 30-inch Coyote Outdoors smoker. The interior wall, shared with the main kitchen, features a trio of sliding windows for convenient pass-through of food and drinks. The Caesarstone Palm Shade quartz countertop, rated for exterior use, creates continuity with the indoor kitchen and is supported by NatureKast Weatherproof Cabinetry in Cobalt Linen, which matches the home's trim and complements the stone accenting the interior wall and the kitchen's exterior façade. The outdoor cabinetry offers extensive storage, including a double trash/recycling pull-out, a drawer for a Gozney Roccbox pizza oven, a Coyote warming drawer, and two undercounter refrigerators (a Summit Appliance two-drawer model and a Zephyr single-door unit), all strategically placed for guest accessibility from the adjacent outdoor dining and lounging areas. #KitchenDesign #OutdoorKitchen #ButlerPantry #SummerHome #EntertainingSpaces #AdirondackStyle #CustomCabinetry #InteriorDesign #HomeAppliances #QuartzCountertops

Fiona Naylor, a London-based architect, has transformed a World War II pumping station in Dungeness, Kent, into an energy-efficient holiday home. Dungeness, known for its unique shingle beach landscape and historical structures, has long captivated architects. Naylor's vision was to convert the old pumping station, originally built to supply fuel to France during the D-Day Landings, into a modern living space while preserving its historical integrity. The station was designed to appear as domestic buildings to avoid enemy detection, an intriguing aspect that attracted Naylor to the property. The original structure is a low-lying, oblong concrete building, engineered to be bomb-proof with 30cm thick walls and a concrete plank roof reinforced with steel beams. It also features a perimeter steel ring made from old railway track, a testament to wartime resourcefulness. After the war, the building served various community functions, including a school, a chapel, and a meeting lodge for the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes until 2009. Naylor aimed to retain as much of the original structure as possible, integrating its inherent qualities into the new design. She recognized the thick concrete walls' potential as a heat store, insulating the building from the outside to allow the walls to absorb and retain heat, effectively functioning as a large storage heater. This approach, combined with modern energy solutions, makes the property highly energy-efficient. To further enhance its energy efficiency, underfloor heating was installed, and hot water is provided by an air-source heat pump. Photovoltaic (solar) panels on the roof generate electricity, and LED lighting is used throughout the interior. These features are crucial for a home located on the exposed and windswept Kent coast. The interior design prioritizes a calm and restrained aesthetic, with the vertical concrete of the west wall and the exposed concrete ceiling serving as anchor materials. This industrial backdrop is softened with natural materials such as oak, used for wide board doors, kitchen drawers, and a bench, and honed Cumbrian slate cladding. The main living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining room, and living room, is separated from an adjacent snug by a stone-clad fireplace. Large, frameless windows on the west side offer expansive views of the sea. Bathrooms are centrally located within a pod structure and are lined with vertically routed boards in a soft grey, complementing the metal ceiling beams. Carrara marble is used in the bathrooms, adding a touch of modern luxury, while a sand-textured plaster in a natural color covers other walls. The lighting system, controlled by LEDs, allows for various mood settings, with a concealed light at the glass entrance automatically glowing at night, a design nod to traditional coastal lamps guiding boats home. The Corten steel entrance hallway, detached from the main building by glass, is designed to maximize natural light and highlight the original oblong shape of the structure. Naylor frequently visits the property, appreciating the unique light of Dungeness and the internal lightness achieved despite the building's robust exterior. The holiday home is available for rent through Mulberry Cottages, and details about Fiona Naylor's architectural practice can be found on johnsonnaylor.co.uk. This conversion exemplifies a thoughtful blend of historical preservation, architectural innovation, and sustainable living, creating a distinctive retreat in a remarkable coastal setting. #ArchitecturalConversion #HolidayHome #Dungeness #WartimeBuilding #EnergyEfficientHome #FionaNaylor #KentCoast #SustainableDesign