triangular wooden cabin unfolds on river's shore near alps as a fishermen's retreat

fishermen’s Cabin by Laure Friès settles along Marlens’ shores

Kanna, designed by Laure Friès, is a triangular cabin situated along the shores of Marlens‘ water body, intended as a retreat for anglers. The wooden structure offers both privacy and an unobstructed view of the surrounding mountainous landscape, standing at 4.5 meters to facilitate precise casting for fishing activities. The water body is gracefully positioned along the Chaise, a river nestled among mountains. The dynamic topography and verdant richness make the landscape of this valley immensely appealing. The elements of air and water are palpably experienced, whether one is following the river’s course or lingering by the water body. The mountain vistas are omnipresent, guiding the gaze as much toward the peaks as to their reflections in the water.

all images by David Foessel

Kanna’s slender wooden structure Harmonizes with Landscape

The designers‘ initial intention was to propose a slender structure that does not obstruct the lofty views. The nature of this location offers fullness, tranquility, and a desire for deep connection with the elements, qualities that are perfectly suited for fishing activities. Known for this seasonal pursuit, the Marlens’ water body is a favored spot for numerous anglers and is regularly stocked with fish. The necessity to be close to the water is thus self-evident. Site number eight is positioned between the river and the water body, nestled between the shade of trees and the prospect over the fish. The placement of the cabin is naturally intended to be as close to the water as possible, remaining one meter from its edge to avoid disturbing the aquatic environment. The fishing rod, an essential tool for anglers, plays a decisive role in the design of the cabin. It can measure up to 2.2 meters and has a flexibility that varies depending on the targeted prey.

Kanna, designed by Laure Friès, is a triangular cabin retreat for anglers

Triangular Geometry and Open Design Define Kanna Fishing cabin

The term ‘rod’ originates from the Greek ‘Kanna,’ meaning a tube or reed. Its rigid material must possess sufficient flexibility to allow the angler to draw the prey towards themselves without breaking the rod. The movement the user makes from casting the hook into the water to retrieving it outlines a series of triangular geometries, thus progressively shaping the structure of the cabin. A cabin, by definition, is meant to provide shelter. It offers a place to isolate oneself, to reflect, and to find tranquility in connection with the environment. Laure Friès’ design team aims to offer anglers at the Marlens water body the possibility to fish in a shelter and set back from other visitors. To maintain an openness to the landscape, the triangular structure widens as one approaches the water. A fixed height of 4.5 meters is also sufficiently comfortable for casting lures. Kanna is a proposition that is both poetic and pragmatic, primarily dedicated to anglers, but also to walkers and other curious visitors seeking a unique moment of contemplation.

the structure stands at 4.5 meters, offering privacy and unobstructed views of the mountain landscape

positioned along the river, the cabin is set in a dynamic, verdant valley, blending with the natural topography

the design encourages a connection with nature, enhancing the experience of air, water, and mountain views

Kanna’s design maintains a slender profile, preserving the panoramic vistas of the mountainous environment

while designed for anglers, Kanna also serves as a contemplative retreat for walkers and visitors seeking solitude

project info:

name: Kanna
architect: Laure Friès | @laurefries.architecture

location: Val De Chaise, France

photography: David Foessel

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom