A multi-generational family home built from sustainable and recycled timbers

The article details the completion of the Larson family lodge in rural Minnesota, a project deeply rooted in the philosophy of repurposing and reclaiming materials. The endeavor was initiated by Glenn Larson, a father with a passion for salvaging old timber, chalkboard, and other elements from demolished structures, a practice he shared with his wife, Karen. Following Glenn's unexpected passing in 2015, his son, Brooklyn-based designer Gunnar Larson, took on the responsibility of bringing his father's dream project to fruition. The challenge began with finding a contractor willing to work with a tractor-trailer full of scrap wood and other salvaged materials. Most contractors deemed the collection worthless, but Aaric Geihl of Geihl Construction ultimately embraced the unique vision. The salvaged materials, including wood from a 1919 school, were transformed into the lodge's doors, handrails, baseboards, and trim. Notably, parts of the old school chalkboard were ingeniously incorporated as a backsplash behind the stove range and as flooring in the entryway. The 4,200-square-foot family lodge, situated on 280 acres of family land, was a long-term project that gained significant momentum in 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted Gunnar, his wife Sara, their two children, and Gunnar's mother, Karen, to remain in Minnesota and dedicate themselves to completing the house. They spent five months living in the basement, which Glenn had excavated, creating a space with surprisingly high 9-foot ceilings, contributing to a sense of spaciousness. The lodge features a geothermal heating and cooling system, a detail Gunnar and Geihl addressed despite initial drainage challenges from the deep excavation. The completed lodge is designed for multi-generational use, with a full kitchen, bathroom, three bedrooms, and a sauna downstairs, while Gunnar's mother resides on the main floor. Gunnar aimed to achieve an authentic farmhouse feel with modern updates. Design elements throughout the house reflect the surrounding environment, such as pink hues inspired by nearby Jasper stone quarries and floral wallpaper mimicking the 60 acres of native prairie land visible from every window. Gunnar's design decisions, though sometimes bold, were largely embraced by his family, as exemplified by the jewel-toned chinoiserie wall covering in the sunroom. The construction emphasized durability and longevity, with selections like oak floors, walnut kitchen cabinets, and cedar siding chosen for their ability to age gracefully with the property. The article also highlights Gunnar's personal design inspirations and his network of collaborators, including the contractor, a family-friend plumber, a cabinet builder, and an upholstery service that created custom pieces using deer hides from family hunts. The lodge stands as a testament to Glenn Larson's vision, ensuring the family's connection to the land and their shared history for generations to come. #SustainableHome #SalvagedMaterials #FamilyLegacy #HomeRenovation #MinnesotaDesign #RusticModern #ReclaimedWood #InteriorDesign #LodgeLife

This article describes a unique sustainable home designed by Breathe Architecture, situated on the banks of Edgars Creek in Melbourne. The residence is notable for its organic integration into the natural environment, aiming to minimize disturbance to existing plant life and land formations. The design philosophy behind the house emphasizes a deep connection to nature, allowing homeowners to experience both indoor and outdoor living simultaneously. The house's architectural layout is structured around a central brise soleil, which functions as the spine, connecting three distinct pavilions dedicated to sleeping, living, and bathing. These pavilions are strategically arranged around a central courtyard. The exterior cladding of each pavilion utilizes raw ironbark, chosen to help the structure blend seamlessly with the surrounding ironbark trees. Inside, the home features recycled Tasmanian oak timber flooring, further highlighting its commitment to sustainable and natural materials. Madeline Sewall, an Associate at Breathe Architecture, explains that the landscape design was intentionally kept simple, reflecting the native environment by using mulch and indigenous plants. This approach ensures that the house's immediate surroundings remain consistent with the broader natural setting of Edgars Creek. The brise soleil on the western side of the house plays a crucial role in regulating the internal environment by providing shade and ventilation. Constructed from grey ironbark posts and incorporating sliding ironbark doors, this feature creates a micro-environment that adapts to changes in sunlight and weather throughout the year. The inner walls of the brise soleil are adorned with tree fern, lomandra grass, and bird's nest fern, enhancing the natural aesthetic and ecological integration. The property also features a rammed-earth wall on its south side, which serves both a functional and aesthetic purpose. This wall shields the house and visually echoes the colors and textures of the nearby sandstone cliffs along Edgars Creek. The garden design blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, with elements like a zen garden, an in-ground fire pit in the courtyard, and a vegetable garden that extends around the house's perimeter. The client's primary objective for the home was to achieve an intimate connection with nature and foster a lifestyle that operates in harmony with the ecosystem, rather than dominating it. The north facade of the house, which encompasses the living, dining, and kitchen areas, benefits from passive solar orientation. This design choice allows sunlight to naturally penetrate these spaces, contributing to temperature stability and overall thermal performance, reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. The architectural and landscape decisions collectively illustrate a comprehensive approach to sustainable living, emphasizing material sustainability through the use of recycled and locally sourced materials. #SustainableArchitecture #EcoFriendlyHome #MelbourneArchitecture #BreatheArchitecture #NaturalLiving #GreenBuilding #NativeLandscaping #TimberConstruction

The BARNagain project by In.Site-Architecture demonstrates an innovative approach to home construction, moving beyond traditional new builds by utilizing salvaged materials from old barns. A family embarked on this project, collecting wood from several local barns located approximately 65 miles away, aiming to create a residence that blends modern aesthetics with rustic charm. In.Site-Architecture was enlisted to transform these reclaimed materials into a unique and energy-efficient dwelling. The core structure of BARNagain, including its rain screen-cladding and interior paneling, is predominantly crafted from the repurposed wooden planks. This choice of material imparts a distinctive character to the home, echoing its agricultural origins. Design elements such as a steep roof, an integrated loft, and high wood ceilings further reinforce the rustic feel, while simultaneously contributing to the home's unique architectural identity. Energy efficiency and environmental sustainability are central to BARNagain's design. The residence is strategically bermed on its north side, providing protection from strong northern winds prevalent in the area. An intelligently designed overhanging roof and external shadings are incorporated to regulate solar heat gain, minimizing it during warmer months and maximizing shelter during colder periods. This passive design strategy contributes significantly to maintaining a comfortable indoor climate year-round. For active heating and cooling, the home employs geothermal energy, which works in conjunction with a cooling system and radiant floors. This integrated system ensures a highly energy-efficient and consistent indoor temperature. Furthermore, the installation of a solar hot water system and an array of photovoltaic panels on the roof above the loft generates electricity and heats the home's water. These renewable energy sources, combined with a heavily insulated building envelope, enable the BARNagain to operate almost entirely off-grid, showcasing a commitment to self-sufficiency and reduced environmental impact. #ReclaimedWood #SustainableArchitecture #SolarPower #GeothermalEnergy #OffGridLiving #RusticModernDesign #BarnConversion #EcoFriendlyHome #InSiteArchitecture

This article showcases nine spectacular wooden homes from around the world that redefine traditional timber construction, moving far beyond the concept of a simple log cabin. Each featured property demonstrates innovative architectural approaches, highlighting wood's versatility, aesthetic appeal, and structural capabilities in modern design. The Woodhouse in Jutland, Denmark, exemplifies a harmonious integration with its woodland surroundings. Designed with Douglas fir paneling and extensive windows, it offers panoramic forest views and a connection to nature. The main house features an open-plan kitchen and living area, master bedroom with a private terrace, and an outbuilding with additional bedrooms, making it an ideal holiday rental. Its minimalist interiors, softened by a wood-burning stove and exposed beams, are complemented by gold accents. In East Dulwich, London, the Pocket House by Tikari Works illustrates innovative urban design on a compact plot. This half-subterranean home, built on a former car garage site, utilizes a lightwell to bring natural light into its basement levels. A slatted timber screen exterior ensures privacy while allowing sunlight penetration. The interior combines concrete, Douglas fir, and spruce with exposed brickwork, featuring clever built-in storage and playful architectural elements like oversized doors and folding walls. Chimney House in Logatec, Slovenia, designed by Dekleva Gregorič Arhitekti, draws inspiration from traditional Slovenian barns and local 16th-century church architecture. Its distinctive feature is a long, chimney-shaped skylight that runs along the roof, flooding the interior with natural light and framing sky views. Clad in oiled larch, the exterior blends with the forest landscape. Inside, the open-plan kitchen and dining area are anchored by a blackened metal-encased chimney, with oiled oak walls and flooring providing warmth and functionality through integrated seating nooks and storage. Knothole House in Hiroshima, Japan, by ICADA, challenges perceptions of cheap wood by intentionally incorporating knotholes to create unique lighting effects resembling a starry night sky. Built as an annex, this 969-square-foot home uses low-cost laminated timber, leftover roof panels, and insulation-filled textiles, with hemp ropes substituting traditional beams. The exposed wooden framework throughout the interior contributes to an organic, pared-back aesthetic. Haus am Moor in Krumbach, Austria, is a modern residence and studio inspired by rural barns. Its elm and fir-clad exterior is designed to weather gracefully. The construction uniquely utilized clay from the foundation to create on-site air-dried bricks. The interior, designed by Bernado Bader Architekten, features concrete and wood sourced from the owner's forest, embracing a 'root to tip' philosophy. A minimalist design with exposed wood and polished concrete, it is efficiently heated by a central wood-burning hearth and a geothermal pump. A woodland home in Cornwall, UK, built by a couple specializing in steam-bending wood, showcases remarkable DIY craftsmanship. Featured on Grand Designs, this 2,282-square-foot home cost significantly less than typical construction due to the owners' hands-on approach. Exquisite wood cladding is used throughout, including in a spa-style bathroom, and custom wood-bent elements like balconies and lampshades highlight the couple's expertise. Summertide in Nevada, USA, is a luxurious log home overlooking Lake Tahoe, previously owned by Howard Hughes. Built in 1934, with a guesthouse added in 1940, the property features rustic charm with low wooden beams and stone fireplaces. Spanning five and a half acres, it includes a vast wooden deck with a hot tub, offering stunning lake views. Residence Terschelling in the Netherlands, designed by Achterbosch Architecten, is a contemporary wooden home nestled in sandy dunes, offering North Sea views. Built into the ground, its basement is integrated beneath the dunes, allowing the structure to merge with the natural landscape. A two-story glazed gable maximizes light, and Western red cedar cladding is chosen to weather and blend with the surroundings. Finally, The Standard House in Pszczyna, Poland, by KWK Promes, is a versatile, round, wood-clad home designed to adapt to various terrains. Emphasizing sustainability, it uses natural materials and renewable energy sources. Prefabricated wooden parts reduced building costs without compromising quality. Its circular silhouette eliminates thermal bridges, providing excellent insulation and a warm, cozy interior, with exposed wooden beams and a minimalist palette defining its unique architectural style. #woodenHomes #architecturalDesign #sustainableArchitecture #modernLiving #timberConstruction #innovativeDesign #homeArchitecture #uniqueHomes #woodwork

In the mountainous region of Bavaria, Germany, a distinctive holiday home known as Haus P offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the traditional chalet. Designed by Stuttgart-based Yonder — Architektur und Design, this 2,680-square-foot residence serves as a rural retreat for a family of seven from Hamburg. The architects, Benedikt Bosch and Katja Knaus, drew inspiration from classic Allgäu chalet-style homes, adapting the form into a modern, sculptural structure. The house is strategically positioned on a gentle slope in the German alpine region of Allgäu. Its exterior features charred wooden siding, which not only provides a natural, weathered appearance but also offers eco-friendly weather protection, contributing to a cool, dark-grey aesthetic. This charred wood contrasts effectively with core-insulated exposed concrete used for the foundations of the basement level, establishing a solid plinth for the timber structure above. The combination of these materials creates a two-toned facade that is both visually striking and functionally robust. The unique geometry of Haus P is a result of maximizing the property’s allowable building envelope. Bosch explains that the design conceptually originates from a classic chalet form with a shallow gabled roof and a full lower level, from which an oblique section was strategically removed along its central axis. This incision effectively divides a single building into two primary components: the main house and a separate storage shed, creating a protected courtyard in the intervening space for outdoor activities. Access to the main entrance is provided by cantilevering stairs along the slanted rear façade, leading to this courtyard. The interior spaces are characterized by their cool, lofty ambiance and an emphasis on pure and simple aesthetics. Wood, a prevalent building material in the region, is extensively used for the home's structural framework and interior finishes. The double-height ground level accommodates the open-plan communal areas, including the kitchen, living, and dining spaces. A large picture window in this area frames stunning views of the surrounding mountains, integrating the natural landscape into the living experience. A modern, minimalistic concrete fireplace is a focal point in the living area. The lower level, or garden basement, is functional and well-appointed, housing two guest rooms, a sauna, and a bathroom, offering practical amenities for a large family or guests. Stairs within the house beautifully blend with the wooden walls, floors, and ceilings, creating a cohesive design. A built-in bench along the stairs provides a quiet spot for reflection, while an upper-level loft serves as an idyllic space for reading or stargazing through its picture windows. The canted shape of the building contributes to these commodious interior spaces with high ceilings, enhancing the overall sense of openness and light within the home. #ChaletInspiredHome #ModernArchitecture #GermanAlps #CharredWoodSiding #ConcreteDesign #HolidayHome #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation

The article explores the concepts of "green" and "sustainable" homes, clarifying that these terms are interchangeable and refer to construction practices that minimize environmental damage. Architect Virge Temme explains that green architecture integrates design, materials, and systems to create homes that are environmentally responsible. While the initial cost of building a green home may be 2 to 5 percent higher, with an additional $3,000 for certification, owners can expect to save 10 to 30 percent in operating costs over the 30-year lifespan of the home, particularly with rising energy prices. The article highlights the personal experience of Guy Fortin and Judy Samida, who are building one of the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified homes in the nation near Sturgeon Bay, and the first in Wisconsin. Their approach is based on two core principles of green construction: building only what is needed and maximizing insulation. Firm environmentalists, Guy and Judy were also drawn to the idea of self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on external systems. Their home is significantly smaller than initially planned, achieving a 39 percent reduction in size and a nearly 1,400 square-foot smaller construction footprint, thereby preserving more trees. This reduction was achieved by designing multi-functional spaces, a process that required flexibility and open-mindedness. The Fortin and Samida home incorporates nearly all-natural, recyclable materials. Wood is sourced locally through sustainable forestry practices. The concrete foundation slabs serve as the finished floors, integrating in-floor solar hydronic radiant heat and finished with natural waxes and stains. A masonry wood stove provides supplementary heating. The metal roof, made from 80 percent recycled material, is recyclable and functions as a rainwater collection system for non-potable use. The home also features low-flow fixtures, energy-efficient appliances, and solar photovoltaic panels for power. Construction practices include strict recycling, no dumpsters on site, and minimal tree removal, limited to the area necessary for solar panel efficiency. The cleared area will host a septic field and vegetable gardens, watered by the rainwater collection system. The article acknowledges that achieving a fully "perfect" sustainable home is challenging, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making in all aspects of consumption, from product packaging to necessity. For existing homeowners, the advice is to avoid discarding functional items merely to replace them with green alternatives, as part of sustainability involves reducing landfill waste. Practical steps for existing homes include checking and upgrading furnace and hot water heater efficiency, installing timers on water heaters, and improving attic insulation with materials like icynene. The article also suggests exploring rebates for solar water panel installation, switching to compact fluorescent lightbulbs, opting for carpets made with recycled materials, using low VOC paints, and purchasing energy-efficient appliances. The use of sustainably processed local materials is also encouraged to reduce transportation fuel and support local economies. Finally, the article introduces the LEED for Homes Program, established by the U.S. Green Building Council, which rates homes based on environmental standards for materials, construction, energy systems, and waste management. It also cautions against "greenwashing" and advises homeowners to educate themselves on green building practices and certifications from reputable sources like the Natural Choice Directory, the Whole Building Design Guide, and the Midwest Renewable Energy Association. The article concludes by highlighting the environmental impact of increasing home sizes in the U.S. over the past 50 years, noting that larger homes consume more resources and generate more waste, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. #SustainableHomes #GreenBuilding #LEEDCertification #EnvironmentalDesign #EcoFriendlyLiving #EnergyEfficiency #RenewableEnergy #ResourceConservation

Treehouses, traditionally a childhood staple, have evolved into popular adult getaways, often showcasing remarkable transformations through creative design and the use of reclaimed materials. The construction of these structures frequently highlights sustainable practices and innovative repurposing of various items. One prominent example is the "Airbnb Wishing Well" in Georgia, recognized as Airbnb's most-wished-for listing globally. This secluded Atlanta retreat comprises three rooms—Mind, Body, and Spirit—connected by rope bridges. The Mind room features antique furnishings, fossils, and 80-year-old windows made of pressed butterfly wings. Similarly, an "Airbnb Treehouse Canopy Room" in Miami’s Little Haiti offers a three-story experience overlooking a sustainable farm, incorporating a taste of farmhouse style. The "Airbnb Luna Loft" in Georgia utilizes 1860s barnwood, 16-foot windows from an old warehouse, a penny floor, and a copper-lined whiskey barrel shower, exemplifying resourcefulness in its design. The "Minister’s Treehouse" in Crossville, Tennessee, built by Horace Burgess from reclaimed wood, famously grew to 97 feet tall before being closed due to fire safety concerns. Another commercial example, the Tree House Café in Magnolia, Texas, uses a treehouse as its sign, with an accompanying “Hillbilly Hilton” trailer outfitted with antiques. The "Trillium Treehouse" by Barefoot Treehouses used foraged or reused materials for 90 percent of its construction, including recycled deck materials, salvaged doors, and siding from a 150-year-old cabin. In upstate New York, the "Airbnb Whispering Wind" is an off-the-grid treehouse featuring a clear roof for stargazing and reclaimed windows. "The Roost" in Greensboro, North Carolina, is an eco-friendly treehouse built with local materials. International examples include the "(Tree)House of Hyères" in France, a collaboration between Ethan Hayes-Chute and Jean-Paul Lespagnard, constructed from found, reclaimed, and recycled items. The "Airbnb Rainforest Treehouse" in Costa Rica provides access to natural hot springs and rainforest trails. Australia hosts the "Blue Mountains Treehouse," situated on 600 acres of private wilderness, offering views of glow worms. "The Hermit Thrush Treehouse" in Vermont sourced local and reclaimed materials, providing a rugged experience with an outside shower. The "Bird’s Nest" at the Treehotel in Sweden is well-camouflaged with branches and features a luxurious circular interior. A "Canadian Treehouse" outside Toronto is made from a reclaimed barn, complete with a slide. The "Hashtag Treehouse" in Washington stands nearly 22 feet off the ground with rustic features. O2 Treehouse designs such as "Healdsburg" incorporate reclaimed Douglas fir, while "Copper Nest" uses reclaimed wood and steel awnings with a rust patina. "Calistoga" by O2 Treehouse features a trapdoor entry, a catwalk, and woven recycled climbing ropes as hammocks. "Villa AIX" by O2 Treehouse utilizes salvaged windows and features portions of the tree growing through its interior, alongside rebar supports and a rope swing. The "San Jose treehouse" by O2 Treehouse, overlooking San Jose, is a fairy-tale-style home with reclaimed timber, salvaged windows, four rooms, a deck, and a skylight roof. Other notable treehouses include the "Lost Meadow Treepod" in Cornwall, UK, built with recycled materials and cedar siding, and "Chapelle" in Utopia, Texas, built by Nelson Treehouse and Supply, inspired by French countryside chapels and filled with French antiques. "The Cinder Cone" in Washington, a paradise for skaters, incorporates a grain silo, a galvanized steel water trough, and fiberglass seating from a bowling alley, all sourced from Craigslist and salvage yards. "The HemLoft" in British Columbia, by Joel Allen, also used Craigslist for materials. Nelson Treehouse and Supply, known from the Animal Planet show "Treehouse Masters," has created numerous distinctive treehouses, including those at Treehouse Point like "Bonbibi," "Burl" (a honeymoon suite with a crow's nest and antique decorations), "Nest," "Temple of the Blue Moon" (showcasing intricate woodworking), "Trillium" (offering 360-degree views with sustainable construction), and "Upper Pond" (built on two trees with a lofted bed, skylights, and a rope swing). Other creations include the "Bangkok Treehouse" overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the adventurous "Kingston Treehouse" in South Africa’s Sabi Sand game reserve, and a Barefoot Treehouse made from recycled wood and harvested branches. Jonathan Juhasz’s "Sensational Spaceship" used a grain silo and repurposed fiberglass from a bowling alley. The "Broken Head Bodhi Treehouse" in Australia is a three-story cabin-like structure with ocean views. The "Silver Maple Treehouse" in Washington incorporates local mountain rocks and petrified wood, with a net play area below. The "Bird Barn Treehouse" features reclaimed windows, live edge cedar siding, and reclaimed doors as wall features. Celebrity treehouses include Shaquille O’Neal’s "Shaq Speakeasy," with a 9-foot door and a lighthouse-like second level, and Grace Vanderwaal’s treehouse with two pods connected by a bouncy cable bridge. For commercial purposes, the "Bass Pro Shop Treehouse" for Dogwood Canyon Nature Park uses reclaimed barn wood and numerous birdhouses. The "Magical Maine Treehouse" utilizes reclaimed wood for its exterior and interior, with a turret design. The "Far Out Hideout" features reclaimed wood siding, a rusted steel roof, and dream nets. The "Glamping Out" treehouse boasts two decks and a rhododendron branch door handle. The "Nelson Family Treehouse" was created by Pete Nelson for his daughter. The "Catskills Glasshouse Treehouse" uses salvaged windows, including stained glass. The "Tennessee Riverbank Treehouse" has a corrugated metal roof and a screened-in porch. "Charlie’s Treehouse" at the Treehouse Resort and Spa features tree branch railings and rope lights. The "Ski Lodge Treehouse" combines elements of a ski lodge, including a dual-sided fireplace, chairs made of old skis, and a chair lift. Finally, the "Sky Pirate Hangout" features a nautical theme with a ship wheel, a lifesaver, and a ship-shaped deck, all highlighting the diverse and creative uses of reclaimed materials in treehouse construction. #DIYTreehouses #ReclaimedMaterials #SustainableDesign #EcoFriendlyConstruction #UniqueAccommodations #Upcycling #TreehouseMasters #CreativeBuilding #OutdoorLiving

The article showcases the Marrickville Laneway House, a transformed semi-detached cottage in Sydney's inner suburbs, designed by Studio Weave Architects. The project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can convert an older, often economically driven, housing type into a modern, comfortable family home, addressing contemporary living needs and local council regulations. Semi-detached cottages, originally built for inexpensive housing, frequently present challenges during renovation, including limited access to light, air, and views, as well as the need to maintain streetscape character. Studio Weave Architects successfully navigated these complexities, creating a home that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The design strategy involved retaining the original front rooms and corridor for bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry, while adding a new open-plan living area at the rear, topped by a third bedroom, study, and ensuite. This straightforward plan is enriched by meticulous design details. A thin light well with a large overhead window, placed between the old and new sections, allows natural light to cascade into the living spaces. Below the stair, a semi-sunken living room features a built-in bench and a window box seat, offering versatile spaces for interaction or quiet retreat, making the small room feel more expansive. A significant design element is the northeast corner of the living room, which employs complex door joinery to slide away, eliminating a corner column and opening up diagonal views to the garden. This feature seamlessly connects the interior with the exterior, despite the garden's modest size. Upstairs, highlight windows are strategically placed, with glass leaning back on thin steel supports, reminiscent of iconic rural Australian architecture. Operable solid timber panels on the northern facade provide privacy and prevent overlooking, while a fixed glass window at the rear frames a view of a prominent backyard tree. The material palette heavily features recycled Australian hardwood, used for walls, doors, windows, floors, and joinery. This choice imparts a rich warmth throughout the house and celebrates the inherent character of the timber, with its marks and scars. The extensive use of recycled materials also contributes to the project's sustainability by reducing reliance on raw resources and diverting timber from landfill. Further environmental considerations include the incorporation of a rainwater tank and the promotion of natural cross-ventilation, eliminating the need for air conditioning. The Marrickville Laneway House stands as a testament to the transformative power of good design in renovating existing housing stock. By balancing practical considerations with creative solutions, the architects have delivered a family home that prioritizes comfort, natural light, privacy, and sustainability. The project demonstrates how careful attention to detail, material selection, and spatial organization can elevate a humble semi-detached dwelling into a refined and enjoyable living environment. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #SydneyArchitecture #SemiDetachedHouse #RecycledTimber #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #UrbanLiving

Atelier Victoria Migliore designed and constructed a 904-square-foot tree house in Brittany, France, in 2018, meticulously integrating the structure within an existing pine forest without felling any trees. The design prioritizes minimal environmental impact, employing 26 steel piles to elevate the home between three and 10 feet above the forest floor, thereby preserving the delicate root systems of the surrounding pines. This elevation strategy allows the building to sit lightly on its site, maintaining the natural integrity of the landscape. The exterior of the tree house is characterized by striking charred wood, which offers a stark contrast to the light blonde wood used throughout the interior. This material choice creates a distinctive aesthetic while also blurring the boundary between the inside and outside, particularly in areas like the single bedroom where the charred wood siding is continued. The interior plan is organized around a central water feature, which is open to the sky and tiled with a vibrant blue-and-white chevron pattern, serving as a focal point and introducing natural light into the core of the home. Niches were carefully carved into the building's form to accommodate mature pines, allowing them to grow unhindered through the structure itself. Further emphasizing the connection with nature, the kitchen and dining area are thoughtfully separated by a glassed volume that wraps around two mature trees. This design choice maximizes natural light and provides continuous views of the forest, effectively bringing the outdoor environment indoors. The consistent use of light wood inside the home ensures that the interior finishes recede, directing attention to the dynamic views outside. A deck at the entry wraps around an existing tree, and another deck off the bedroom features two swings, providing additional opportunities for residents to engage with the natural surroundings. A unique lounging area includes a suspended net above the central water feature, offering a whimsical spot for relaxation and stargazing. The project details Atelier Victoria Migliore as both the architecture and interior design firm, with La Charpenterie as the builder and ects as the structural engineer. The design showcases an innovative approach to building within a natural environment, demonstrating how contemporary architecture can coexist harmoniously with existing ecosystems. The tree house serves as a serene getaway, embodying a deep respect for its natural setting while offering modern comforts and unique architectural elements. #TreeHouse #ModernArchitecture #SustainableDesign #BrittanyFrance #CharredWood #BlondeWoodInteriors #EnvironmentalIntegration #AtelierVictoriaMigliore #ForestLiving

This article details the renovation of an unusual midcentury octagonal house in Mendocino, California, which is built around a centuries-old redwood tree. Interior designer Bret Rossman and his husband, Phil Zimmerman, discovered the 1,500-square-foot property, dubbed the Mendocino Tree House, after being drawn to the California coastline. They purchased the house within 48 hours of its listing, driven by a belief in destiny and the unique integration of nature into its design. The original architect, Jim Hunt, designed the house in 1971 and built it in 1972, with a core philosophy of blending the structure as an "accoutrement to nature." The redwood tree, affectionately called "the keeper of the house" by Rossman, is visible from every interior space. Despite its age, the tree is still growing, requiring the decking to be cut away several times over the years to accommodate its expanding trunk. The previous owners had even considered removing the tree, a fate averted by Rossman and Zimmerman's acquisition of the property. With a vision to transform the Tree House into a luxurious vacation rental that maintained its natural essence, the couple embarked on renovations. Modern updates were made to the bathrooms, including the addition of rainfall showerheads and a horizontal window that ensures the redwood tree remains visible even while showering. An outdoor entertainment area was created from a carport, featuring an eight-seat table and a bistro set, enhancing the outdoor living experience. The landscaping was designed with a zeroscape aesthetic to emphasize the "one-with-nature" theme. This involved replacing cement pavers with wood plank edging, using plant beds instead of traditional landscaping, and opting for mulch over grasses. The vegetation chosen is native and minimally manicured, allowing it to seamlessly blend with the surrounding redwood forest, reducing upkeep and promoting sustainability. Rossman, an interior designer, personally curated the home's decor, selecting midcentury-modern and bohemian-style furniture and accessories, largely sourced vintage or thrifted. His aim was to create an atmosphere that felt like a friend's well-designed home rather than a typical rental, incorporating high-quality materials like linen bedsheets and wool rugs. These thoughtful touches contribute to an elevated guest experience, despite the higher maintenance they might require. Crucially, the couple is committed to ensuring the vacation rental benefits the local community. They actively support small businesses in Mendocino, directing over $70,000 in revenue back to the neighboring towns through curated guest experiences, collaborations, and private partnerships. This approach underscores their dedication to integrating the Tree House not just with nature, but also with the local economy and culture. #MendocinoTreeHouse #MidcenturyModern #ArchitecturalRenovation #VacationRental #SustainableDesign #BiophilicDesign #InteriorDesign #RedwoodForest #CommunityEngagement

The Light Saw House project by Zen Architects involved the transformation of a turn-of-the-century weatherboard cottage in Melbourne’s Fitzroy North into a contemporary, light-filled family home. The clients, who had purchased the property in the late 1990s, returned after two decades abroad to find their home in disrepair, including a heavily overgrown garden and structural issues requiring re-stumping. This need for structural repair served as the catalyst for a more extensive rear extension project. The original cottage featured a south-facing lean-to addition that lacked natural light. Zen Architects addressed this by removing the lean-to and replacing it with a new family-oriented living area. A key design element of this new space is the incorporation of two north-facing sawtooth highlight windows. This architectural feature, historically used in industrial buildings to direct light inward, was employed here to funnel ample natural light into the living area, even though the space itself faces south. The angle of these sawtooth roofs subtly mirrors the hip roof of the original house, a deliberate choice to maximize sun penetration without overshadowing the rear garden. The twin sawtooth design ensures light reaches deeper into the interior. Internally, the design creates a dynamic interplay of light, with the windows casting linear bands of light across the open-plan living and kitchen area, which shift with the sun's movement. The sharp lines of the sawtooths on the ceiling add a distinct aesthetic, resembling folded paper art. A painted brick wall along the boundary serves as a gallery space for the client’s art collection, complete with a recessed hanging system. A south-facing window seat extends from the building's envelope, offering views of the adjacent pool. The main living area is complemented by a smaller, versatile multipurpose space designed to minimize the overall footprint and preserve garden space. This flexible room functions as a second living area or a spare bedroom, allowing the main living area to remain a technology-free gathering space for the family, a choice that has significantly enhanced their family life. The two living areas are arranged in an L-shape, embracing an external deck that leads to the garden, designed by Eckersley Garden Architecture. A sunken, vegetated trough beside the pool allows for a fence-free pool area, further integrating it into the landscape. The architects meticulously ensured that every new space maintained a strong connection to the outdoors, including a narrow study with views to the garden. Sustainability was a significant consideration in the design, with the extension primarily constructed from recycled materials. Original brick garden beds were repurposed into an internal brick path, and only a minimal number of new bricks were introduced. This use of recycled brick, alongside a lightweight timber structure, contributes to the building's thermal stability. The dwelling achieved a 6.2-star NatHERS sustainability rating, a notable achievement for a south-facing building that retained a substantial portion of its original structure. The front of the house, where three bedrooms are located, also saw the original dining room transformed into a main bedroom and walk-in robe. The front facade was repainted in a dark grey, providing a contrasting backdrop to the lush garden, allowing the cottage to stand out proudly among its neighbors. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #SawtoothRoof #NaturalLight #MelbourneArchitecture #FamilyHome #RecycledMaterials #InteriorDesign

Architectural firm i29 has completed a Senior Shelter, an independent 1,076-square-foot residence in the Netherlands, designed for older generations to live alongside their families. The project emphasizes thoughtful multigenerational living, allowing for close proximity between grandparents and their children and grandchildren while maintaining individual privacy. This black-clad, single-story home is situated amidst a lush, treed environment and serves as an addition to the family's main residence. The design of the Senior Shelter integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings through a minimalist, low-slung profile and an exposed-rafter roof. The exterior features waxed-wood facades and an extended roof clad in sandwich panels, which create shaded walkways and overhangs. This elongated roofline and modest scale help the structure blend into the landscape, minimizing its visual impact and fostering a sense of harmony with nature. The strategic placement of the home aims to promote familial connection while respecting personal space, achieved through careful site integration and a balanced spatial layout. A central patio forms the core of the home, providing ample natural light and acting as a visual and functional link between the interior and exterior spaces. Three fully retractable sliding glass doors allow residents to open the living areas directly to the garden, promoting an indoor-outdoor lifestyle and enhancing the feeling of openness. Additionally, sliding panels on the west side of the building offer adjustable shade and privacy, enabling the home to adapt to varying seasonal conditions and personal preferences. The interior aesthetic is characterized by a serene material palette consisting of oak, light gray concrete, and soft white accents. A continuous band of oak wall cladding extends throughout the interior, drawing the eye upward and emphasizing the high ceilings and exposed rafters. This design choice contributes to a sense of spaciousness, making the home feel larger than its actual footprint. The white ceilings and rafters create a visual contrast with the dark exterior, preventing the interior from appearing too stark and maintaining a bright, airy atmosphere. The layout includes custom-designed cabinetry and a minimalist kitchen, dining, and living area that wrap around the central patio. This arrangement provides each open space with optimal access to the outdoors, whether for fresh air when the doors are open or for varied views of the surrounding greenery when closed. On the opposite side of the house, the bedroom and bathroom are situated, accessed through glass doors that define the private quarters without obstructing the visual flow through the home. This intentional design ensures both privacy and an uninterrupted sense of connection to the light and landscape, embodying a balanced approach to modern multigenerational living. #MultigenerationalHome #i29Architecture #NetherlandsDesign #MinimalistArchitecture #BlackHouse #IndoorOutdoorLiving #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture #SeniorLiving

Konga, founded by Paulius Zemaitis and Goda Zemaite, in collaboration with Danish architect Mette Fredskild, developed a concept for minimalist hotel spaces that immerse occupants in natural landscapes, offering varying views of the outside from within. This approach aims to subtly alter daily routines, making them feel different. The initial cabin design was highly successful, leading to over a thousand orders across Europe and the U.S. Konga emphasizes sustainability by utilizing slim cross-laminated timber (CLT) and wood offcuts in their construction. The company plans to expand its presence across North America and has introduced a new model, the Konga M. The most recent project involved building a new Konga M cabin for a couple, Mark and Saly, who operate a rental property in North Norfolk, U.K. This 195-square-foot cabin serves as a serene retreat, providing a unique experience of silence. It incorporates sustainable materials such as slim CLT for ceilings, walls, and furniture, all finished with Osmo wax. Konga’s distinctive shelving system, made from solid wood offcuts, functions as a divider between the bed and the rest of the cabin. Strategically placed windows create sight lines that connect the interior with the outdoors, making the structure partially see-through. Despite its small size, the cabin can comfortably accommodate two to three people, featuring a twin bed with a pull-out mattress, a kitchen with a refrigerator and stove, a small dining area with seating and built-in storage, additional cabinets, and a fully equipped bathroom. The wood floors are crafted from offcuts supplied by Boen, a Norwegian flooring manufacturer, and upcycled materials are also used for the bedroom-lounge separating bookcase, dining bench upholstery, and bathroom stonework. The base price for a fully furnished Konga M cabin is $53,000, and the Konga L costs $63,700, with these prices applicable only in Europe. Key features that differentiate Konga prefabs include their Scandinavian-inspired design and efficient layout, which create a sense of spaciousness. The cabins blend comfort with sustainability, featuring thoughtfully placed windows that seamlessly connect the interior with the surroundings. The exterior is clad in burned wood, a treatment that ensures durability for up to 100 years and provides a unique aesthetic. The company extensively uses offcuts and leftovers for various components, including flooring, fabrics, and furniture, enhancing the cabin’s sustainability. All furniture, floors, ceilings, walls, and doors are constructed from mass timber or three-layer spruce (slim CLT), avoiding chipboard. Surfaces are treated with Osmo oil or wax, foregoing lacquering. Ceilings and walls are offered in slim CLT, dark waxed, or oak veneer panels, with no painted plaster. For bathrooms, backsplashes, tabletops, and certain interior walls, Konga uses Contec, a Danish micro cement, which offers a durable, seamless, rustic finish, avoiding tiles or painted surfaces. Doors and windows are wooden with tempered glass, minimizing plastic usage. Konga cabins are currently available across Europe, with plans for U.S. delivery in the near future. The designs meet the requirements of the park model RV category, allowing them to be built in most U.S. states. A demo project in the U.S. is scheduled for spring 2024, and if successful, full-scale delivery to the U.S. and Canada will commence. The typical lead time from contract signing to a fully installed cabin is three months. Konga manages the unloading, placement on the client's foundation, terrace assembly, and minor finishing works. Clients are responsible for permitting, site preparation, and utility hookups, though Konga provides necessary plans and information. Customization options are limited to maintain design integrity and sustainability standards but include choices for interior panel finishes (dark waxed slim CLT or light oak veneer), expanded appliance suites, upgraded insulation, temperature control systems, and functional adjustments to furniture, such as bed storage options. The cabins reflect Konga’s philosophy that quality should be paramount, even in minimalist living, evident in features like the kitchen’s two-burner stove, refrigerator, and undermount sink. An L model is also available, offering an additional sleeping area. #PrefabCabins #SustainableDesign #TinyHomes #CrossLaminatedTimber #EcoFriendlyLiving #ScandinavianDesign #ModularConstruction #RecycledMaterials #OffGridLiving

In 2022, facing a challenging real estate market, Cody and Ashley Spencer, along with Cody’s brother and sister-in-law, collaboratively purchased a property in Langley. This acquisition laid the groundwork for their company, Homestead Design Build, which specializes in multi-generational living projects. Their clientele often includes younger generations struggling to enter the housing market, leading to creative solutions like parents moving into basements or building laneways. The Spencers' personal project involved renovating an existing house for Cody's brother and sister-in-law while constructing a new home for themselves on the opposite end of the deep, forest-bordered lot. Initial plans for a sprawling rancher were re-evaluated due to the lot's narrow profile and proximity to a creek, leading them to design a two-storey, 1,950-square-foot residence. Inspired by storybook European cottages, the new home blends modern aesthetics with a cozy, timeless appeal. The exterior features steeply pitched rooflines, board-and-batten siding, and warm cedar accents against a charcoal-on-black color scheme. A covered back patio, sheltered by a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams and slim skylights, provides a three-season outdoor living space amidst Douglas fir and cedar trees, fostering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Inside, dual-panel sliding-glass doors open into a living room dominated by a floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, continuing the European cottage theme. The interior design incorporates an eclectic mix of vintage and modern furnishings, including a minimalist gallery wall and a dining area with spindle-back chairs, modern benches, and a traditional console. The kitchen is a focal point with a custom-framed hood fan, built-in shelves, and a striking quartz slab backsplash in a soft green hue. Defying convention, a framed artwork hangs above the range. A fieldstone feature wall near the farmhouse-style sink and brushed-gold faucet visually links to the living room fireplace. White and rift-cut white oak cabinetry with polished-chrome hardware contributes to a light, modern feel, while the Caesarstone-topped island features reeded side paneling and an integrated feeding nook for the family dog. The main floor powder room introduces a bold touch with walls and wainscotting drenched in Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog. Upstairs, the primary bathroom offers a spa-like retreat with a freestanding tub, ceramic herringbone floor tile, and large-format wall tiles mitered into the windows with quartz sills, creating a durable, waterproof wet area. The daughter's bedroom is decorated in bright pink, complemented by a green and rose bathroom with playful terrazzo hex floor tile and a practical pull-out stool from the vanity for accessibility. The couple’s home office, where they work side-by-side on projects, reflects their collaborative design-build approach. While the Spencers thoughtfully designed their home for longevity and adaptability to their family's growth, they acknowledge that minor details can be refreshed over time, ensuring the home remains both functional and aesthetically pleasing for years to come. #HomeDesign #CottagecoreStyle #MultiGenerationalLiving #HomesteadDesignBuild #CustomHome #InteriorDesign #EuropeanCottage #OutdoorLiving #FamilyHome

Westchester builder Sylvain Côté embarked on a remarkable transformation of a dilapidated 1980s-era octagonal house overlooking Truesdale Lake in South Salem. Initially, the focus was not on sustainability, but rather on the unique octagonal shape and the idyllic lakefront view that captivated Côté and his wife, Tisa. The house, dubbed the “upside-down house” due to its lower-level bedrooms, was in a state of disrepair, with water damage, resident birds, overgrown landscaping, and obscured lake views. Côté, a builder with an artistic background, recognized the property's potential and meticulously planned a comprehensive renovation. During a family vacation, he obsessively tweaked blueprints, ultimately deciding to strip the house down to its foundation, retaining only the original stone chimney as a central feature. His innovative design involved reversing the house's orientation by adding a third level for bedrooms, effectively turning the "upside-down" house "right-side up" for his family of four. The integration of green building principles into the project occurred somewhat serendipitously. A six-month delay caused by a neighbor's complaints to the zoning board provided Côté with the opportunity to attend a green design seminar. This experience profoundly shifted his perspective, leading him to incorporate sustainable practices into the rebuilding process. The result was a striking contemporary Craftsman-style home, completed in 2006, which earned numerous accolades, including the highest possible Energy Star rating (five-and-a-half stars), an impressive New York State Home Energy Rating System ranking of 92.8, and awards from Professional Remodeler magazine and the National Association of Home Builders. Côté's design harmonizes with the American Craftsman movement's emphasis on natural materials, structural integrity, and integration with the landscape. He utilized exposed beams for both structural support and aesthetic appeal, and incorporated natural light and reclaimed materials extensively. The exterior, made of engineered PVC, requires minimal maintenance, eliminating the need for painting or staining. The interiors showcase rich, dark wood, wrought iron, and stone, creating a rustic yet sophisticated ambiance, reminiscent of a ski lodge. Reclaimed wood from the original house and other historical buildings was used for flooring, with different types of wood on each of the three levels, and some pieces of furniture custom-made from leftover wood. Radiant heating beneath the floors ensures comfort and energy efficiency. The open floor plan on both the main and lower levels promotes family togetherness and efficient space utilization. The formidable double-sided stone chimney serves as a focal point, separating living and dining areas. French doors and floor-to-ceiling tinted glass windows maximize lake views and reduce solar heat gain and UV damage to interiors. The main floor includes a study area with a large bookshelf and a discreetly integrated kitchen with Energy Star-qualified appliances. The lower level is dedicated to entertainment, featuring a bar, a flat-screen television, and a pool table, all centered around a second stone fireplace. Key sustainable features include a Hepa filter system for air quality, heat-recovery ventilators for fresh air exchange, an instantaneous flash water heater, photovoltaic panels for electricity generation, and low-wattage LED, CFL, and halogen lighting. After two years of living in the home, Côté and his family have experienced the benefits of green living, leading Côté to believe that green building is a lasting trend due to its advantages for both the environment and personal well-being. #SustainableHome #GreenBuilding #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanStyle #LakefrontLiving #EnergyEfficient #ReclaimedMaterials #OpenFloorPlan #ArchitecturalDesign