In the serene expanse of Carmel Valley, California’s Santa Lucia Preserve 5 stands as a testament to contemporary elegance and sustainable design. Created by Richard Beard Architects and Susan Williams, this modern English cottage offers a luxurious escape within a sprawling 20,000-acre oak grove, skillfully harmonizing with the wild beauty of its setting.
It’s a perfect marriage of refined architecture and natural tranquility for those seeking a sophisticated, yet grounded lifestyle.
Experience the Ardmore Residence, a 1951 Hermosa Beach cottage, reborn under Ballentine Architects. This two-phase renovation marries the original charm with modern sophistication, featuring an open-concept layout and a striking blend of natural elements and contemporary finishes. A true exemplar of coastal modern design, the Ardmore Residence redefines beachside living.
Discover the enchanting blend of modern architecture and natural beauty at Haj Cottage, designed by ADR in the picturesque Krkonoše Mountains, Czech Republic. This family-friendly retreat, nestled at 1000 meters (3280 feet) above sea level, offers a serene escape in the heart of the Krkonoše National Park.
Designed in 2022, the cottage features a unique combination of larch wood facades and stone bases, seamlessly integrating into the mountainous landscape. The interior, crafted by Formafatal, showcases natural materials and bespoke furniture, perfectly capturing the essence of the surrounding mountains while offering the comforts of modern living.
Cottage Two Sisters, designed by Denisa Strmiskova Studio in 2023, is a quaint family cottage perched in the Czech mountains. It mirrors traditional Jizera architecture, combining custom-made wooden elements and Jesenice shingle roofing.
Inside, the design skillfully blends the past and present, using a mix of woods, metals, and warm orange accents. This fusion creates a rustic yet contemporary ambiance, enhanced by custom joinery and refurbished vintage pieces.
Made of Sand Retreat, designed by Studio Weave in the Blackdown Hills, UK, is a modern twist on a traditional stone cottage.
This 2021 project, featuring a double-story timber extension, merges artistry with nature. Its 85 square meters (914 square feet) offer a creative haven with stunning views and natural materials, providing a tranquil retreat for artists and families alike.
Rose Dream, a cottage in Dnipro, Ukraine, reflects ArchObraz‘s modern design ethos, tailored for a young family’s evolving lifestyle. This 2022 renovation expands living spaces, infuses energy efficiency, and blends stark modernity with the warmth of custom woodwork and soft pink velvet, creating a unique home that celebrates both style and sustainability.
Chalet TISSARAOUATA, designed by Stroph Architecture & Design in Shefford, United Kingdom, is a minimalist retreat nestled in a mountainous maple forest. Embodying a deep respect for its natural surroundings, this chalet harmoniously blends with the landscape, minimizing its environmental impact. With careful consideration of the terrain, sun paths, and natural lines, it serves as a meditative space, offering an escape from urban life.
Inspired by indigenous longhouses, it’s both a family retreat and a sustainable architectural wonder, featuring a space-efficient design, natural cedar wood exteriors, and large openings for a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Step into Valgums, a transformed lakeside family residence in Latvia, creatively reenvisioned by Zane Tetere-Sulce in 2023.
Merging traditional wooden aesthetics with contemporary features, the home showcases a striking roofline, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an eye-catching ‘Shou Sugi Ban’ facade. Its interior, designed for spacious living and illuminated by natural light, radiates comfort and style, positioning Valgums as an architectural highlight.
