In a mountainous region in Spain, local studio Ábaton converted a labour house into a contemporary cottage that overlooks a nearby forest. Designed in 2024, Cottage in La Vera features traditional architecture and materials but with a modern twist. Dubbed a “non-intervention” in the territory by the studio, the renovation was intended to respect the existing building, using local materials from the land and old surrounding structures.
Designed by Ábaton, the El Escorial Renovation is a comprehensive overhaul of a 1976 house in Madrid, Spain. Situated amid the dense forest of Mount Abantos, the project focuses on sustainability and energy efficiency, utilizing modern technologies and materials. The design prioritizes the connection with the surrounding environment, incorporating large windows for natural light and integrating as much of the original structure as possible. The renovation encourages family interaction, linking indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly.
JUMA Architects expanded Villa RN – an existing farmstead in Anzegem, Belgium, with the addition of a new volume positioned at right angles to the original structure. Designed in 2024, the extension features a distinctive black wooden facade and roof, creating a contemporary contrast.
Hudson Lookout, designed by Kimberly Peck Architect, is a modern watchtower home located in the Catskill Mountains, United States. Completed in 2021, the house features a unique three-story cube design with random-shaped windows to highlight the surrounding mountain views. The interior includes a stacked steel staircase leading to a rooftop deck, and energy-efficient elements like SIP panels and radiant heating.
Central Mood House is a renovated Victorian dwelling blended with modern elements in Melbourne, Australia. Crafted by DOOD Studio in 2022, this house features dark, textured stones, timbers, and brass for a masculine interior.
Located in Melbourne, Australia, Curvy House by Ben Callery Architects resolves challenging spatial conditions with an innovative roof design. This house, on a narrow lot with a heritage facade, showcases a roof that lifts and curves to draw in sunlight, enhancing spatial perception. The combination of clerestory windows and floating structural details ensures the space remains bright and comfortably airy, creating a uniquely delightful environment.
Casa PM is a single-family house in Maldonado, Uruguay created by VDV ARQ in 2022. This modern dwelling sits just five kilometers from the ocean and merges beautifully with its semi-rural surroundings. The design innovation underscores an abiding sense of nature’s beauty, as well as the necessity for serenity and purposeful living space.
The impressive Studio VARA-designed Fire Country Lookout is a multi-generational home that was completed in 2022. Located in Healdsburg, CA, this architectural treasure features prismatic form to support sustainable living and adaptability to climate change. The house is designed with seamless movement between the inside and outside of the house to provide great views from every point, thus creating an ideal family environment.
