‘city cottage’ by verstas architects located in helsinki, finland image © andreas meichsner

 

 

 

finland-based practice verstas architects has created the ‘city cottage’, a single family residence located in helsinki finland. this 14 square meter cabin is a prototype for a fully functional and transportable dwelling. located within the city limits amidst a nature preserve, inhabitants may feel removed from civilization while living a short walking or biking distance from everyday activities. best suited as a secondary home, its serves as a site for gathering and relaxation for family members during daily breaks and for the weekend.

verstas architects: city cottage front facade image © andreas meichsner

 

 

 

energy needs are small enough to allow solar energy to entirely power the structure. ribbon windows above kitchen equipment allow a visual connection with nature and experientially extends the interior making the small space feel unbounded. entrances on either end of the galley kitchen introduces breezes to ventilate the home. fixed furniture and storage techniques typically found in boats are used to conceal personal effects and streamline the quaint interior. a single step separates the entryway and kitchen from living and sleeping areas utilizing the void for storage of dirty shoes and firewood. the couch may be converted into a bed and a rope ladder leads to a loft for sleeping.

verstas architects: city cottage the formal entrance uses cantilevered wood planks for steps image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage a rock is used as a stoop for the secondary entrance image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage transparency is created by wrapping windows around the corners of the structure image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage two opposite entrances allow ventilation image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage kitchen with outward views through ribbon window image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage (left) separation between the living and kitchen space is created by a single step (right) panels may be opened to stow away personal effects images © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage built in storage conceals and orders possessions image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage rope ladder to access lofted sleeping space from living area image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage storage for firewood and shoes image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage kitchen, fireplace and living/sleeping spaces image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage fireplace image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage illuminated at night image © andreas meichsner

verstas architects: city cottage exterior at night image © andreas meichsner