Burnt Rock: Olson Kundig Cabin Cantilevers Over Remote Minnesota Meadow
Situated within the breathtaking scenery of Grand Marais, Minnesota, Burnt Rock is an incredible architectural feat by Olson Kundig. Finished in 2024, this 600-square-foot retreat presents an audacious harmony between nature and contemporary living.
About Burnt Rock
Introduction to Burnt Rock
Situated within the breathtaking scenery of Grand Marais, Minnesota, Burnt Rock is an incredible architectural feat by Olson Kundig. Finished in 2024, this 600-square-foot retreat presents an audacious harmony between nature and contemporary living. Tom Kundig, FAIA, RIBA, Design Principal, explains, “Burnt Rock is designed to be anchored in the earth, as well as to lift off from it.” This principle enables the dwelling to gracefully hover above the meadow, rendering expansive views of the wide lake horizon and undulating landscapes.
Exterior Design: Harmony with Nature
The facade of Burnt Rock enchants with its flawless connection to the natural surroundings. Built from a combination of wood, glass, and concrete, the cabin showcases a minimalist design. A striking red front portal punctuates its straightforward material array, welcoming guests inside. At one end, the structure stands firmly upon the hilly ground, while the contrasting end cantilevers dramatically over the meadow, offering jaw-dropping views. As sunlight filters through the enormous glass walls, the bond between the interior and exterior becomes a central point of focus.
Interior Spaces: A Retreat for the Senses
Upon entering, the core of Burnt Rock reveals a snug main gathering area, which includes a petite kitchen, dining spot, and living space. This zone is fortified by a welcoming concrete hearth, amplifying the cabin’s ambiance. Glass walls spanning from floor to ceiling frame stunning vistas of the lake and hills. These transparent barriers slide open, seamlessly uniting indoor and outdoor living.
The expansive, south-facing deck broadens the living area, boasting a deep overhang ideal for shaded leisure. A wood-burning grill promotes year-round utilization, enabling inhabitants to take pleasure in the fresh air no matter the season.
The bedroom suite, noticeably sheltered and anchored, cultivates a feeling of peace and retreat. Situated in the more earthy section of the cabin, it bolsters the home’s equilibrium between the vast horizons outside and the close-knit comforts inside.
In conclusion, Burnt Rock serves as a hallmark of modern design that honors and mirrors the natural splendor of its surroundings. With its considerate layout and artistic vision by Olson Kundig, this cabin promises a one-of-a-kind experience for those looking for refuge in the wilderness of Minnesota.
Photography by Gabe Border
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