moxon architects' moss-topped mountain hut blends into the scottish highlands

a backdrop of the scottish highlands is the location of the isolated and newly built ‘culardoch shieling’ by moxon architects, a mountain hut based in the picturesque cairngorms national park. almost blending into the mossy landscape, the 47 sqm hut is a contemporary interpretation of humble structures and a cross between traditional scottish crofts, shepherds’ huts and alpine shacks found in switzerland.

all images © moxon architects

london–based moxon architects were commissioned by the client to create an intimate place for entertaining on their highland estate. with this, a focus within is the long wood table fitted for hosting these social gatherings. the highland hut is finished completely in timber to allow minimal impact on the terrain. coupled with the hut’s nod to vernacular shelters, the design also references modernist architecture. this is illustrated with the irregular cut-out apertures that are similar to corbusier’s notre dame du haut church at ronchamp. this distinctive window arrangement precisely frame views out to particular landscape features, while keeping a degree of privacy.

the spruce-wrapped interior features a wood burning stove and the structure itself is built with a curved timber frame and deeply overhanging eaves. lastly, the roof is covered in heather, moss and stone; a detail that enables the hut to seamlessly camouflage into the highland surroundings.

‘the hut was commissioned as an escape. our design strives to be humble and humane but is also precise, playful and sophisticated,’ – ben addy of moxon architects

 the hut is fitted with a long table for hosting these social gatherings

 the window arrangement is used to precisely frame views out to particular landscape features such as the granite tors

the client wanted a unique place for entertaining on their highland estate

measuring just 47 sqm, the building is a contemporary interpretation of vernacular structures.

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