This Norwegian Cabin Hunches Under a Protective Hood

Built to withstand powerful winds and rain, Hytte Imingfjell is a mountain cabin with a distinctive, hood-like roof.

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Located on the Imingfjell mountainside in Norway, this minimalist, 785-square-foot cabin features a "hood" in response to the climate and the region’s strict building regulations: cabins in this windblown area must have sectioned windows, standing wood paneling, gabled roofs set at 22 to 27 degrees, and triple bargeboards.

Head architect Grethe Løland of the Norwegian studio Arkitektvaerelset found these guidelines to be a source of inspiration. "Limitations are the root of all playful creativity, and in this case, it really became our goal to try to create within the boundaries," says Løland.

The commission was for a robust and efficient little cabin oriented towards the lake.

Hytte Imingfjell, as the cabin is called, sits 3,690 feet above sea level in an area exposed to avalanche danger—thankfully, through additional site analysis, the firm found that the cabin itself is in the clear.

"We kept the original idea of a ‘protecting hood’ from the initial project sketches," says Løland. What was once designed as a shield for the retreat is now a bold and contrasting statement. The angled pine paneling, set against the black cabin body, creates a strong geometric form. The ore pine roof protects the "eyes" of the cabin in the front and prevents rain from dribbling down the cabin's "neck," where the main entrance is.

"The building became an understated, iconic sculpture in an area where most of the cabins tend to look alike—and ultimately our clients were really happy with its unique form," concludes Løland.

The angled pine paneling set against the black cabin body creates a strong geometric form.

The "hooded" roof, originally designed as a protective feature against the risk of avalanches, shields the front and rear facades.

A mix of black and natural pine, the cabin is perfectly integrated into its surroundings.

The ore pine roof prevents rain from dribbling down the cabin's "neck," where the main entrance is.

The roof also protects the "eyes" of the cabin in the front.

Inside, oak flooring and paneling reflect the colors of the natural surroundings. Large glass sliding doors bring the outdoors into the living room. Photo by Marte Garmann — Inside, oak flooring and paneling reflect the colors of the natural surroundings. Large glass sliding doors bring the outdoors into the living room.
Photo by Marte Garmann

Above the living space, stairs lead to an open attic that provides enough space for eight people to sleep.

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