Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Troia, Portugal, the House in Troia is a one-of-a-kind modern architectural marvel designed by Miguel Marcelino. This house, conceived as a city within a house, is a chosen retreat for those seeking a unique blend of privacy and connection with nature. The house’s design principles are absolutely guaranteed to captivate, with its enigmatic volumes, patios, and walls offering a unique living experience.
The sleeping rooms, operating on a private dimension, are totally apart from the social areas, which are organized around a large courtyard, the heart of the home. The vegetation, a mix of shrubs and trees, completes the constructed volumes, providing a natural backdrop that enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the house.
Nestled in the picturesque town of Knowlton, Canada, the Lakeside Cabin is a testament to modern design and a love for the outdoors. Designed by Atelier Schwimmer in 2019, this cabin is more than just a dwelling; it’s a symbol of commitment to leisure and camaraderie.
Situated on the banks of Lake Brome, the cabin’s design is centered around a concrete fireplace, creating a warm and inviting space for guests. The essence of the design is further enhanced by a vertical atrium that opens onto the lake, offering breathtaking views and a sense of unity with nature. The exterior, clad in a mix of charred and naturally oiled larch, adds a unique touch to the cabin, making it a standout addition to the classic 19th-century houses and modest cottages that dot the landscape of the Eastern Townships.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of the “House of the Tall Chimneys,” a unique retreat designed by Frankiepappas, nestled in a nature conservation area in rural South Africa. This architectural marvel, built in 2020, harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape, offering a bedroom that opens out into the treescape and a bathroom rooted in the rockscape.
The design employs a simple set of materials, including rough stock brick, sustainably-grown timbers, glass, and aluminum, creating a structure that is as sustainable as it is beautiful. The House of the Tall Chimneys is not just a retreat; it’s a fantastical immersion into the heart of nature.
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Vaucluse, France, the House of Bees stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful design. This modern farmhouse, brought to life by the creative minds at Extra Medium, is a harmonious blend of the old and the new.
Once a dilapidated structure weathering away in the forest, the House of Bees has been meticulously restored to its former glory, all while embracing the charm of its rustic origins. The design pays homage to the region’s architectural history, with walls finished in local lime plaster and casework carved from regionally sourced oak. As summer arrives, the house becomes a secluded refuge, nestled in the forest yet never losing sight of the vineyard below.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, the Cole Valley Residence is a testament to the ingenuity of Dumican Mosey Architects. This contemporary luxury house, designed in 2016, embraces the challenges of its unique location – a small, steep, and oddly-shaped lot in the Cole Valley neighborhood.
The architects’ vision transcended these obstacles, resulting in a mini-residential tower that delights with expansive views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. The design features five floors and a rooftop deck, with living spaces situated on the upper levels to maximize the stunning vistas. Each level, including the garage, is skinned in floor-to-ceiling glass, creating a dynamic model of efficiency and transparency for vertical living.
Step into the world of contemporary design with the Henry House by Wala, a remarkable townhouse nestled in the heart of East Melbourne, Australia. This heritage dwelling, known for its immaculate 19th-century terrace house aesthetic, has been thoughtfully renovated to embrace the modern era while preserving its original charm.
The house now boasts a light-filled rear extension, designed to create a fluid passage of travel through the main spine of the building. This extension, featuring an open plan arrangement, is framed by a large window and daybed that extend the line of sight into the raised garden, drawing in as much northerly light as possible. The use of natural materials such as timber, concrete, and steel, framed by simple geometries, provides a logical counterpoint to the ornamental and decorative nature of the old house.
Nestled in the heart of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the BM House is a testament to the innovative prowess of Studio ro+ca. This single-family residence, designed in 2019, is a perfect blend of contemporary and mid-century styles.
The house, set against the backdrop of Rio’s vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, is a true architectural delight.
Nestled in the lush forests of Seabeck, Washington, the Little House is a testament to the power of minimalist design and a deep connection with nature. This modern retreat, designed by Mwworks and Avery Cox Design, is perched on a north-facing bluff, offering breathtaking views of the Hood Canal and Dabob Bay. The 1,140 square foot (105.91 square meters) structure, built on an existing foundation, is a masterful blend of simplicity and elegance, with its stark exterior contrasting beautifully against a warm, bright interior.
The Little House is more than just a weekend house; it’s a sanctuary. Its design is intentionally restrained, with large carved openings in both the roof and walls that selectively embrace the views and natural light. The exterior is clad in taut oxidized black cedar and blackened cement infill panels, while the interior is warmed by lightly painted MDF panels and soft pine plywood. This retreat is a testament to the essence of the modern cabin—small in size but much larger than its boundaries.