Cabin

Bänkhuset by Wingårdh arkitektkontor Swedish for “bench house,” this project would maximize space by running a bench around the perimeter of the cabin. The interior features other space-saving tricks, such as making the most of under-bed space.

The site needed a path that would let residents easily ascend from the bank to the house. The architects created one by simply replicating the way they had naturally walked up the site the first time they visited. The result is a meandering trail that directs visitors to the landscape’s different features — whether a majestic Arbutus tree, a private stone beach, or a wildflower clearing.

Kartheiser's courtyard also includes a dry sauna with a ceiling made from 2,500 pieces of wood.