House by a Norwegian Ski Resort in Kvitfjell

House by a Norwegian Ski Resort in Kvitfjell

© Sam Hughes

The design process for this unusual housing project in Kvitfjell, Norway, was inspired by the client's desire to have a 'summer house in a winter landscape'.

By placing two blocks close to the boundaries of the plot, architects created a kind of inner courtyard. The resulting open-air space allows enjoying privacy from neighbors and the rays of the setting sun during Easter holidays and summer season.

The main part of the house and the extension are built on piles rising from the ground, emphasizing the lightness of contact between the dwelling and the soil. To realize the idea of a mountain summer house, its body is protected with thin vertical blinds, giving an original appearance to the courtyard-facing walls.

The building layout has a Y-shape and, with panoramic glazing, offers a wonderful view of the mountain landscape both from common areas and from the main bedroom.

Photos: Sam Hughes Marc Goodwin