Out of the Valley, an innovative architecture studio, has unveiled its first prefabricated sauna named Forest Sauna in Devon, England. The sauna is designed to promote the Scandinavian tradition of sauna bathing and offers a retreat in the heart of nature. Elevated on metal supports and clad in charred black larch using the Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique, the six-square-meter Forest Sauna integrates seamlessly into its surroundings. The prefabricated structure features a large square window framing views of the adjacent forest, emphasizing a connection with nature.
Founder Rupert McKelvie and his team at Out of the Valley crafted the Forest Sauna with a simple timber structure, clad in planks of charred larch. Inside, the sauna is lined with thermo alder wood, a popular choice for saunas, creating a calming atmosphere. The glass door provides easy access, and the interior includes two wooden benches flanking a central heater, which customers can choose to be either wood-fired or electric. The sauna’s portability is a key feature, allowing owners to relocate it easily, aligning with the studio’s commitment to adaptability and a harmonious integration with the landscape.
Out of the Valley’s Forest Sauna joins a collection of handmade cabins and shelters from the studio, each contributing to the ethos of embracing nature and escaping the demands of contemporary living. With Forest Sauna, Out of the Valley not only brings the Scandinavian tradition to the UK but also introduces a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design, offering a tranquil space for relaxation immersed in the beauty of the natural environment.
The transformative journey of Aslan, a former carriage horse, at The Gentle Barn Sanctuary in California is a heartwarming testament to the crucial work undertaken by animal sanctuaries. Having spent his entire life pulling carts and carriages as a Percheron draft horse, Aslan’s body began to deteriorate from the years of strenuous labor, ultimately leading him to an auction destined for slaughter. Fortunately, The Gentle Barn Sanctuary intervened, rescuing Aslan and providing him with a second chance at life. After a week of essential veterinary care, including dental work, podiatry, and bodywork, Continue reading “Former Carriage Horse Finds New Life at Sanctuary in California” »
Nestled in the heart of the Garfield Historic District in Phoenix, the Silo House stands as a testament to the seamless integration of rural charm with urban living. Designed by architect Christoph Kaiser, this chic tiny home is where modernity meets nostalgia, showcasing a 1955 silo that Kaiser acquired from a Kansas farmer. The journey from rural Kansas to the urban landscape of Arizona is a unique tale, as Kaiser ingeniously transported his future home in the back of a pickup truck, embodying the essence of the tiny house movement. Continue reading “The Silo House: A Modern Take On The Old Grain Bin” »
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and trade car horns for the serene sounds of nature on a farm stay near Mudgee, just a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Sydney. As you journey, the scenic route provides a therapeutic balm for your muscles and nerves, allowing you to unwind to the rhythm of your favorite music while marveling at the beauty of Lake Windamere. Upon entering the 250-acre property at the base of Mount Frome, you’ll encounter a picturesque scene of deer, cows, sheep, and goats, giving you a warm country welcome. Continue reading “On This Farm You Can Sleep in a Converted Silo” »
Archaeologists working in the canyons along the Colorado-Utah border have uncovered what is believed to be a previously unknown spiral calendar carved and used by the Ancestral Pueblo people. Led by Polish archaeologist Radosław Palonka of Jagiellonian University, the team made the discovery near Castle Rock Pueblo in the Mesa Verde region. The Ancestral Pueblo people inhabited the village in the 13th century and were known for their cliff dwellings, circular kivas, and cliff drawings. The newly discovered petroglyphs, including spiral carvings up to one meter in diameter, were found about 800 meters above the cliff settlements, suggesting the creators may have used them for Continue reading “Ancestral Pueblo Carvings Discovered in the Southwest May Have Been a Calendar” »
Cécile Davidovici, a French artist, collaborates with film director David Ctiborsky in a mesmerizing series titled La Vie Silencieuse, which translates to “The Silent Life.” In this collaborative effort, still-life scenes are transformed into intricately embroidered masterpieces. The process begins with Ctiborsky creating 3D models of each scene, serving as the foundation for Davidovici’s exquisite embroidery work. Inspired by the still lifes of Italian painter Giorgio Morandi, known for his ability to evoke a sense of vibrational silence in his compositions, the duo captures a similar essence in their embroidered scenes.
The result is a stunning array of objects rendered with meticulous detail and a captivating use of color.
Cécile Davidovici developed her distinctive thread painting style through years of experimentation, particularly turning to embroidery as a form of creative expression after her mother’s passing. Explaining her connection to the medium, Davidovici notes, “Making art pieces I can touch was a game changer.” Her passion for tangible creations is evident in her growing portfolio, where she skillfully translates still lifes and figurative portraits into tactile masterpieces that mimic the brushstrokes of traditional painting.
La Vie Silencieuse showcases the duo’s ability to fuse digital modeling with handcrafted embroidery, resulting in an innovative and visually striking series that pays homage to Morandi’s artistic legacy.
To explore more of Cécile Davidovici’s captivating embroidery projects, you can follow her on Instagram for updates and insights into her latest creations. The artist’s ability to infuse life and texture into her embroidered works adds a unique dimension to the timeless art of still lifes, bringing a contemporary and tactile quality to this traditional craft.
Krishna Cow Sanctuary in Hawai’i offers a unique and heartwarming experience for animal lovers seeking cuddles with cows. The sanctuary, situated on the Island of Hawai’i, is home to various bovines, including bulls, steers, calves, and retired mother cows. For a fee of $20, visitors can enjoy “cow cuddle therapy” by getting up close and personal with these surprisingly affectionate animals. The sanctuary emphasizes that all proceeds from these interactions Continue reading “You Can Cuddle Some Cute Cows at This Unique Sanctuary in Hawai’i” »
As winter sets in, it’s crucial to prioritize home maintenance tasks to ensure your living space remains in optimal condition. One of the primary tasks during the colder months is pinpointing and plugging air leaks. Hunt for drafts around windows and doors, as these can significantly contribute to heat loss. Additionally, assess the insulation in your attic to ensure it is sufficient to keep your home warm. Consider scheduling an energy audit to identify areas where energy efficiency can be improved, ultimately leading to a more comfortable and cost-effective winter season.
To prevent the risk of burst pipes, take proactive measures. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home, such as the basement or crawl spaces. This can help avoid freezing and subsequent pipe damage. Be vigilant about potential floods, especially in areas prone to heavy precipitation or snowmelt. Check the condition of your roof and gutters, ensuring proper drainage to minimize the risk of water damage. Act promptly to address any leaks or weaknesses in your home’s structure to prevent potential flooding issues.
Give your oven a fresh start before the holiday cooking season kicks into full gear. Perform a thorough cleaning to remove built-up grease and food residues, ensuring your oven operates efficiently and safely. Winter is also an opportune time to address outdoor concerns. Act now to prevent potholes in your driveway by filling any existing cracks and applying a protective sealant. Additionally, consider upgrading to a plug-in generator to have a reliable power source during winter storms or power outages. These winter home maintenance tasks collectively contribute to a well-prepared and resilient living environment during the colder months.
Approximately 25 years ago, designer Lisa Moody had a small garden that eventually took a backseat to raising her children and growing her business. Now, with her children older and her passion for gardening rekindled, Lisa, along with her husband, decided to invest in their garden project. Living on an acre of land in North Surrey, B.C., about an hour from Vancouver, they installed raised beds and, inspired by a trip to Sweden, decided to add a greenhouse and chicken coop to their property. Continue reading “This Dreamy Scandinavian Greenhouse Is Also A Chicken Coop” »
