Snøhetta’s timber school in Kautokeino, Norway, named Čoarvemátta, is a remarkable feat of sustainable architecture, achieving 90% energy self-sufficiency despite the region’s harsh Arctic climate. Located north of the Arctic Circle, where temperatures can plummet to –45 °C, the building serves as a cultural and educational hub for the Sami community, housing the Sami National Theatre Beaivváš and the Sami High School and Reindeer Herding School. The structure’s design is deeply rooted in Sami culture, with the name ‘Čoarvemátta’ symbolizing the strength of reindeer antlers. Built primarily from wood and featuring a vast 53,000-sq-ft sloping roof, the hub incorporates traditional slate from a previous school and boasts a unique branching shape that creates dynamic outdoor spaces. Inside, the design is functional and aesthetically pleasing, with natural wood surfaces complemented by Sami art that adds vibrant touches of red and blue.

The Čoarvemátta building adheres to the Passive House Standard, a stringent green building standard that emphasizes high insulation and airtightness, making it incredibly energy-efficient. The hub’s energy needs are primarily met through an innovative geothermal system comprising 40 geo-wells drilled 250 meters into the ground, which power heat pumps for heating and cooling. On particularly cold days, an electric boiler supplements the system. The landscaping around the building remains true to Sami traditions, avoiding urban park-like spaces and preserving the natural environment. Soil removed during construction was carefully stored and replaced to protect the existing seed stocks, demonstrating the project’s commitment to sustainability and cultural sensitivity.

The Cross Cabin, designed by Moontower Design Build in Austin, Texas, represents a groundbreaking approach to sustainable architecture by eliminating heavily processed or synthesized materials. Completed in 2023, this “plant-based” cabin is a model of holistic design that adheres to the AIA Architecture and Design Materials Pledge. Inspired by Michael Pollan’s “Food Rules,” the cabin employs a carefully curated palette of plant-based materials such as wood, cork, hemp, and wood fiber. These materials, minimally processed to retain their natural qualities, are used throughout the structure, from the cross-laminated timber framing to the cork-clad facade. The result is an architectural experience that deeply engages the senses, with textures, colors, and even smells that evoke a profound connection to nature.

The cabin’s design emphasizes the sensory potential of natural materials, creating an environment that is as tactile and olfactory as it is visual. The cork cladding on the exterior, which changes color with weathering, resembles tree bark and provides a dynamic, natural aesthetic. Inside, the use of cross-laminated timber, solid-sawn lumber, and linseed oil finishes enhances the sensory experience, with each material chosen for its ability to engage touch, sight, and even smell. The absence of synthetic sealants, such as polyurethane, further underscores the cabin’s commitment to a natural living environment. This focus on minimally processed materials not only aligns with sustainable design principles but also offers inhabitants a unique, multi-sensory interaction with the space, making the Cross Cabin a standout example of innovative, nature-inspired architecture.

Tower-style cabin overlooking the lagoon. It has a bedroom with a hot tub, a bathroom, a full gourmet kitchen, barbecue, 300mb fiber optic wifi, Smart TV, fireplace, private pool.

Situated on a 6000m² fenced land with more than 500 native trees, it has the following facilities: firewood stock, orchard, vegetable garden, floor fire pit space, barbecue kiosk, hammock, outdoor gym, picnic space, deck with sun loungers, game room with pool and ping-pong table.

Come and enjoy a space designed to rest in nature and enjoy a paradise view.

A complete and private cabin at the edge of Lagoa da Penguela, in Osório, only 1h15 from Porto Alegre and 30min from the beaches of the northern coast.

The charm is due to the view of the lagoon and the mountains that surround it. The sunset is a spectacle apart.

Whether winter or summer, for a weekend or a season, Atalaya awaits with open arms.

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Nestled in the scenic town of Larkspur, Colorado, a unique two-bedroom home built around a 200-million-year-old red rock is now up for sale, offering a true blend of modern living and natural history. The $989,900 property, known as “The Rock House,” is more than just a residence; it’s a tribute to the geological wonders of the region. With a massive 45-foot-high ancient red boulder integrated into its design, this home is a dream come true for geology enthusiasts or anyone who has ever fantasized about living like the Flintstones. The boulder forms a central part of the house’s interior, making it an iconic feature that brings the outdoors inside, creating a tranquil and grounded living environment.

The 2,432-square-foot home, listed by Keller Williams Action Realty, is designed to immerse its residents in nature while providing modern amenities. The property features stunning “Garden of the Gods”-like surroundings, a private hot tub with Milky Way views, and a serene picnic area. Inside, the home offers a unique blend of rustic charm and contemporary comfort, with the rock extending into the office space to create a calming atmosphere. The layout includes a guest suite with barn doors, a modern bathroom, and a large two-tiered deck for breathtaking views. From the custom iron front doors to the outdoor patio, every element of “The Rock House” emphasizes its connection to the natural landscape, making it a truly one-of-a-kind property.

The Sun Valley tiny home, designed by Ridgeline Tiny Homes in Australia, epitomizes the philosophy that less is more. With its sleek all-black exterior and compact design, this tiny home makes efficient use of its 23.7-foot length and 15.4 square-meter interior. The sloping roof and triple-axle trailer foundation provide both mobility and style, while the abundant glazing ensures that the interior is bathed in natural light. The layout is intentionally simple and practical, featuring a ground-floor bedroom with ample headroom, eliminating the need for a loft. This design choice not only enhances the sense of space but also creates a more comfortable and airy living environment.

Inside, the Sun Valley home balances form and function. The living room is minimalist yet cozy, with a sofa and integrated storage that maximize space. The adjacent kitchen is fully equipped with a sink, a two-burner propane stove, a small fridge, and cabinetry, ensuring all the essentials are within easy reach. The bedroom, connected directly to the kitchen, offers a comfortable double bed with built-in storage and large windows that allow for plenty of natural light. Customization options, such as choices in color, cladding, and cabinetry, further add to the home’s appeal. While details on pricing and availability remain unknown, the Sun Valley tiny home stands as a testament to intelligent design and the efficient use of limited space, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a compact yet thoughtfully crafted living space.

Portland International Airport (PDX) has opened its newly expanded main terminal, showcasing the world’s largest mass timber structure in an airport setting. The $2 billion renovation, designed by ZGF Architects, doubles the airport’s capacity, enabling it to handle up to 35 million passengers annually by 2045. This ambitious project highlights the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty and timber industry, with a 9-acre mass timber roof that evokes the feeling of walking through a forest. Using locally sourced wood from small family-owned forests, non-profits, and tribal nations within a 300-mile radius underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and community support. The innovative design not only enhances the airport’s functionality but also reflects Oregon’s tradition of forest product innovation.

The terminal’s design prioritizes passenger comfort, integrating natural elements and biophilic principles to create a serene and welcoming environment. The mass timber roof, with its intricate lattice design and skylights, floods the terminal with natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the space’s overall atmosphere. The terminal also features a reconfigured layout inspired by Portland’s walkable neighborhoods, ensuring a smooth and intuitive flow from check-in to boarding. The project, which significantly reduces embodied carbon and energy use, sets a new benchmark in sustainable airport design. As the first phase of a larger expansion, PDX’s new terminal not only meets current demands but also positions itself as a model for future airport developments worldwide.

The Kemi tiny home, designed by Dragon Tiny Homes, is a compact yet stylish dwelling inspired by Scandinavian design, offering a serene and minimalist living experience. Priced at $50,000, this 20-foot-long home is built on a double-axle trailer, making it an ideal option for those seeking a versatile vacation home or guesthouse. The exterior features sleek black standing seam metal siding with wooden accents, adding a modern touch that complements the subtle Scandinavian aesthetic. Inside, the design is characterized by light hues, an open layout, and generous natural light, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Despite its compact size of 160 square feet, the Kemi is thoughtfully laid out on a single floor, with no clutter or unnecessary additions.

The interior of the Kemi is both functional and charming, with a simple kitchen that includes cabinetry, a sink, and enough space for essential appliances. The bedroom at the opposite end comfortably accommodates a double bed, and while there isn’t a dedicated living room, there’s ample room for a small sofa or seating arrangement. The bathroom, accessible through the kitchen, features a sink, shower, and flushing toilet, with a storage loft above it that can be converted into an upstairs bedroom if desired. Additionally, the home is equipped with a mini-split air-conditioning unit and a ceiling fan to ensure comfort. The Kemi tiny home offers a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, capturing the essence of Scandinavian design without being overly extravagant, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a charming and practical small home.

The Strandvejen 35 Summer House at Følle Strand, Denmark, is a stunning example of how modern architecture can harmonize with nature. Drawing inspiration from the traditional fisherman’s houses in the area, this compact yet luxurious summer house covers only 46 square meters. Despite its modest size, the house offers ample space for up to seven guests, utilizing three interconnected buildings that maximize both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Each structure is thoughtfully positioned to provide breathtaking views of Kalø Bay, with large windows and walkways designed to blend indoor and outdoor living seamlessly. The use of sliding doors and strategic skylights enhances the feeling of openness while maintaining a cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal retreat for those who dream of escaping to nature.

Sustainability is at the heart of the Strandvejen 35 Summer House’s design. Locally sourced materials, particularly Danish oak, are used throughout the construction, from the facades to the roof, ensuring that the house not only complements its natural surroundings but also minimizes its environmental impact. The house is classified under Denmark’s voluntary low-emission category, highlighting its commitment to reducing CO2 emissions. The high ceilings and abundant natural light contribute to a healthy indoor environment, while the built-in benches and sofas offer a perfect spot to relax and take in the serene landscape. This summer house is a testament to how thoughtfully designed spaces can bring you closer to nature while providing all the comforts of a modern home.

Local studio Patrick Bradley Architects has ingeniously transformed the remnants of a historic farm in Northern Ireland by integrating a cantilevered shipping container into the existing ruined walls, resulting in a striking contemporary home named Barneys Ruins. Located in Mid Ulster, this project revitalizes a traditional clachan, a small farming settlement, by blending modern architectural elements with the preserved 200-year-old ruins of an old cottage. The site, inherited by Patrick Bradley from his great-great uncle Barney, inspired a design that juxtaposes the past and present. The shipping container, which was converted off-site and placed on steel columns within the cottage’s original footprint, houses the main living spaces. It features minimalist plywood joinery and terrazzo flooring, with large south-facing sliding doors opening onto a balcony, offering stunning views of the rewilded meadow and promoting local biodiversity.

The architectural approach of Barneys Ruins celebrates the site’s heritage while introducing modern amenities, embodying a profound connection to the land passed down through generations. Accessed by a grated steel staircase, the house also includes a converted barn annex with a concrete fireplace, chimney breast, and a mezzanine sleeping area, maintaining the original agricultural character with a galvanized corrugated steel roof. Sustainability was a key consideration, with reused and recycled materials from the farm, such as old gates and reclaimed stones, to minimize the carbon footprint. At night, LED strips behind the cladding create an ethereal glow, symbolizing the dwelling’s significance in the landscape, akin to the mature Yew Tree at the heart of the local town. This innovative project, alongside other works by Patrick Bradley Architects like the Grillagh Water House, showcases a harmonious blend of historic preservation and contemporary design, bridging the gap between past and present.