The R21 Arkitekter studio has distributed the housing program on two levels, taking advantage of the topography of the land. The spaces for daytime activities are located in the central module of the house, while the night areas are distributed on the two levels on the sides of the house.
Constructively, the project consists of a stone and concrete wall with a retaining foundation linked to the land. A wooden and metal roof rests on the walls, which follows the slope of the plot. The glass enclosures illuminate the different rooms longitudinally, and allow for the creation of open-air spaces in the summer.
Nøtterøy Cabin by R21 Arkitekter. Photograph by Mariela Apollonio.
Project description by R21 Arkitekter
Located in the idyllic coastal area of the municipality of Nøtterøy, situated in the Oslo Fjord, the design and construction of an informal weekend cabin are proposed.
The main premises of the location and direction of the project were: a narrow site between the street and the existing pier, a steep and complex terrain for construction, and a spectacular view of the sea with the Færder National Park as a backdrop.
With the intention of preserving the qualities of the site, the project found its place by utilizing the existing complex topography. The program is organized over two levels. On one side, the sleeping areas are located on the lateral sides and on both levels. On the other, taking advantage of the building's section, the daytime spaces are placed in the central module.
The different spaces are lit longitudinally through a glazed facade system. In summer, all openings are fully deployed, and the cabin presents itself as a simple pavilion—a protected outdoor kitchen beneath the expansive cover—allowing a variety of relationships with the surrounding environment.
Structurally, the project consists of two main parts: a solid wall made of concrete and stone, along with a concrete plinth connected to the ground, which act as containment and support. Above these, a light construction made of wood and metal rises, carefully following the steep slope of the site.
Meticulous attention to precision and detail gives the construction an intimate sense of home.
