inclume architects' cabin is a remote bird watching shelter in british woodlands

‘hide’: an idyllic woodland cabin for wildlife enthusiasts

Hide, an idyllic wooden cabin by Inclume Architects, presents a protective enclosure for nature enthusiasts, walkers, and bird watchers. In the remote woodlands of Thetford, England, it offers an opportunity to enjoy the expansive natural surroundings and observe wildlife while causing minimal disturbance to their habitats. Derived from the concept of a bird hide — a discreet, camouflaged shelter utilized to closely observe wildlife — Hide embodies the essence of ‘escape’, providing a serene and holistic space.

Drawing inspiration from its natural surroundings, the design exhibits a thoughtful approach to envisioning a temporary shelter and its purpose. Central to Inclume Architects’ concept is the use of symmetry, creating a sense of balance and tranquillity while framing panoramic views across the expansive landscape, accentuating its simplicity and minimalism.

all images courtesy of Inclume Architects

inclume architects crafts demountable and portable structure

Despite its compact size, Inclume Architects has carefully curated the cabin for optimal functionality, ensuring each surface serves a purpose. A generously sized opening on one side forms the primary shelter, accompanied by a robust upper canopy roof. Additionally, the front framed view is crafted as a multifunctional piece of joinery, doubling as a seat that can be folded down and offering additional moments of pause and reflection outside the structure. A suspended cube within the lightweight structure resembles a bird’s nest nestled within the branches of a tree.

The architects have designed each structure to be fully demountable and relocatable to alternative positions in the woodland. The remote location, far from an access road, dictated the decision to pursue a ‘flat pack’ design. Each of the facade panels are pre-constructed and slot together on-site within the main structural frame which acts as a mounting support that can be tailored to suit the varied underlying topographical conditions. The use of predrilled holes for fixing the panels minimizes construction noise, and the panels can be conveniently transported by hand or with a small cart.

the cabin perches in the remote woodlands of Thetford, England

its form is derived from the concept of a bird hide to create a discreet shelter

a suspended cube within the lightweight structure resembles a bird’s nest nestled amid the branches of a tree

the front framed view is crafted as a multifunctional piece of joinery, doubling as a foldable seat

each of the facade panels are pre-constructed and slot together on-site

a space to enjoy the observe nature and wildlife with minimal disturbance to their habitats

project info:

name: Hide
architecture: Inclume Architects
location: Thetford, England

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edited by: ravail khan | designboom