Perched on a forested slope in Norway’s Hardangervidda National Park, *Timber Nest* is a serene retreat designed by Oslo-based architect Quentin Desfarges. Clad in untreated pine and punctuated by striking porthole-style windows, this cabin harmonizes with its rugged surroundings—embracing Nordic traditions while framing the untamed beauty outside.
A Dialogue with the Landscape:-
Rather than imposing on the terrain, *Timber Nest* adapts to it. Desfarges carefully preserved the existing birch forest, weaving the cabin into the site like a natural extension of the woodland. “It coexists with the land,” he explains. The structure’s gabled form and exposed timber construction pay homage to local vernacular, while its circular windows—reminiscent of ship portholes—invite dynamic views of the snow-laden trees and mountain vistas.
Warmth in the Wild:-
Inside, the cabin splits into two zones: a soaring, double-height living area with a mezzanine overlook and a private northern wing housing bedrooms and baths. The circular windows flood both spaces with light, creating a loft-like ambiance even during Norway’s long winters. “The cabin may be swallowed by snow at times,” says Desfarges, “but it remains open, always in conversation with the shifting seasons.”
Materials That Tell a Story:-
Raw and honest, the material palette mirrors the forest:
– Silvering pine cladding (left to weather naturally)
– Birch accents tying the interior to the trees outside
– Concrete floors anchoring the cabin to the mountain’s geology
– Pops of green-stained wood in the kitchen and stairs, echoing moss and lichen
Desfarges celebrates impermanence here—the cabin is designed to age gracefully, its textures evolving with time. The result is a space that feels both timeless and deeply rooted in its environment.
*Timber Nest* is more than a shelter; it’s a poetic meditation on Nordic resilience, where architecture bends to nature’s rhythm.
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