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Five cabins are located in the pine forest surrounding the main house. “The design for both the main house and cabins at Saltwater Farm resulted from studying traditional Pacific Northwest cabins and refining that vernacular language with one of Scandinavian minimalism,” says designer Taylor Bode.

This 530-square-foot prefab in East Sussex, England, was designed by Michael Kendrick Architects for a family who wanted to build a woodland retreat/rental on their property. Immersing the lodge into the forest reflects the family’s intent to, as the architects explain, “enhance the ecological biodiversity of the area, protect wildlife, and enable guests … to understand and appreciate the fauna, flora, and unique history and nature of the area, while supporting and promoting the local economy.”

To turn a home into a permanent residence for a family of four, Rama Estudio attached a prefab glass-and-steel box that extends into the surrounding wilderness.

RIC Design Build paid homage to the midcentury era and architect Alan McCullough’s legacy while making the house work for today.

The architect and owners were in sync on every aspect of the design, including the desire for shou sugi ban siding. “I had been interested in shou sugi ban for a long time,” Herrmann says. “These Japanese cypress boards have been charred, wire-brushed, stained, and oiled. We did a lot of testing to come up with the right dark grey color; it changes in the light.”

A large glassless opening on the sloping curved shed roof of this Californian home opens the courtyard to the sky and the elements while give the surrounding living areas an almost outdoor, park-like feel.

After: By knocking down a wall, they opened up the kitchen to the living room to create one great room, ideal for entertaining.

A look at the 30-room Post Ranch Inn, which contains no right angles.

Adapting to the discovery, VFA Architecture + Design incorporates the room in the renovation of this southern Ontario retreat.

A modern addition to an old London home offers ample space for a growing family, as well as a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf situated under a skylight.

Architect Christine Djerrahian turns an industrial space into an unconventional family dwelling that celebrates open-concept living.

Glazed surfaces reflect the surrounding greenery, helping the tiny home blend in with its site.

The bold yet minimalist residence sits lightly on the land and engages with the surrounding scenery.

Designed by architect Chalfont Head in 1950, the French Residence is a captivating home that’s been beautifully preserved.

The brick shell of the 1,863-square-foot building was painted matte black, which "makes the roof float in a wonderful way and accentuates the white framing of the windows," says Ali.

Although it’s “veiled” from the street, the light-filled hideaway amplifies its connection to the outdoors.