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CABIN VINDHEIM: A MINIMALIST WINTER RETREAT

Located deep in the forest near the Norwegian town of Lillehammer is a cabin designed by architect Håkon Matre Aasarød, providing residents a cosy weekend reprieve in a region of heavy snowfall.

The external shape is inspired by snowbound cabins that only have their roof protruding through the snow. The form is a series of gabled roofs of which the edges stretch all the way down to the ground. The shape not only allows the building to support the weight of the heavy loads of snow, but creates interesting nooks and spaces internally. When snow covers the structure, the volume of the cabin is camouflaged and the contrast between architecture and nature become blurred.

During winter it can be difficult to reach the cabin by car, so guests have to cross-country ski for a few kilometres to get there. But their efforts are rewarded as they arrive to a light-filled, intimate space perfect for relaxing after the journey. Drawing inspiration from classic Norwegian lodges, the cabin is clad in black-stained ore pine. The lighter interior is fully covered in waxed poplar veneer. In spite of its compact floorplan of just 55 square meters, the uplifts produced from the roof form, combined with ample natural light, create the sensation of a much larger space.

During winter months the roof transforms into a man-made slope perfect for ski jumping, toboggan rides and other snow-related fun.

And after the sun goes down, guests can relax in bed and enjoy the northern lights dancing above the snowy treetops. Bliss.

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Images via Vardehaugen

2021-04-08T16:21:33+10:00 June 1st, 2017|Architecture|

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