aslak haanshuus arkitekter fuses three log cabins to create lakeside retreat in norway

aslak haanshuus arkitekter architects fuses three log cabins to create lakeside retreat in norway
photography by tom gustavsen

perched on the tranquil shores of lake femunden, norway, the cabin by AHAA architects is an example of creative re-use of existing buildings where the designers have proposed the strategy of merging of the two original small cabins along with the addition of a new structure. by doing this, the single and new entity provides larger space– requested by the client – while preserving the characteristics of the original nordic log cabins. throughout the process of realization, the same traditional construction methods were used along with the same timber dimensions. giving the illusion that the structure is slightly floating about the vegetation, the volumes have been lifted off of the ground, onto a cantilevering deck construction, allowing the house to be reclaimed by the flora and fauna.

the roof cantilevers creating sheltered outdoor spaces

enhancing the connection between the wilderness and the cabin, sheltered outdoor spaces have been created through the overhang of the roof canopy which is composed of a combination of corrugated steel and translucent corrugated roofing panels. the translucent roofing panels are placed between the indoor volumes, casting light downwards to the covered outdoor areas. meanwhile, the material has been utilized in correlation to the doors and windows as well- minimizing loss of indoor lighting due to shadows cast by the overhanging eaves.

the building is lifted 50 cm off of the ground onto a cantilevering deck construction

internally, each room naturally frames a view of the lake and the distant mountains. the original log cabins have been arranged to contain a guest and storage room, while the new log volume consists of two wings, connected by a generous entrance that you can access directly from the covered court. the interiors have been carefully crafted using timber where the  and simultaneously, majority of the furniture, in wood, has been integrated into the walls.

the three volumes are connected by the elongated roof highlighting they all belong together in a single entity

the living area, with a fireplace and the kitchen area, is located in the main wing

timber has been used throughout the interior

furniture has been built and integrated with the rest of the interior

tranquil views over the norwegian lake

the roof is made of corrugated steel

constructed using traditional timber methods

set in the edge of femundsmarka national park

project info:

architect: aslak haanshuus arkitekter as
location: femunden, norway
design team: aslak krogness haanshuus
area: 85 sqm
year: 2015
photographs: tom gustavsen
contractor: martin røsand and kasper ødegaard
furnishings: stein haanshuus and niels moer
main materials: local timber of pine, doors and windows from velfac

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