Let the Hotel Roll
The small Norwegian city of Åndalsnes is a point of entry for tourists headed towards the country's stunning fjords, but the city itself needs an overhaul. Enter Jagnefält Milton Architects and their unique design for a "rolling masterplan": a totally revolutionary way of re-organizing the city that will utilize existing train tracks to move new buildings–in this case, simple boxes on wheels–into new positions based on season and events.
Cabin Fever
Everyone has cabin fever nowadays and no wonder: the cabin might be the most straightforward structure in modern history. Basic and functional, mostly just comprised of 4 walls and a roof, the cabin is a symbol of simpler times in a complicated world. Its appeal is universal. Above is a cabin from Sweden that we think is super cool. If you, like us, have cabin fever, here is selection of cabins for rent from Boutique-Homes.com collection.
Treehouse Hotel by Baumraum
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Who isn't a fan of treehouses? These simple structures bring a smile to everyone's face, and no wonder: in the ultra-urbanized modern world, the idea of returning to a cosy home among the leaves and branches of your very own tree is quite appealing (especially the part where you pull up the ladder behind you). But what about an entire hotel made up of treehouses?
Cape Cod Modernism
Before Cape Cod became, well, Cape Cod, it was known for its isolated beaches, rolling sand dunes, picturesque New England fishing towns, and bohemian, "anything goes" attitude: basically, the perfect backdrop for a gang of young, self-taught architects inspired by European design to play around with form and space unnoticed by the establishment. The result is a collection of almost one-hundred examples of early modern design dating from the 1930s to the 1970s, tucked on the wooded back shore of Wellfleet on the Outer Cape. It is here, within the boundaries of Cape Cod National Seashore, where you will find summer homes that meld the philosophy of modernism with the practicality of New England.
Inflatable igloos
This little bubble, the brainchild of Pierre Stephane Dumas, not only looks great, but it serves as the perfect compromise. For those who like to sleep under the stars but would rather not be exposed to everything that Mother Nature might throw at them, here's the BubbleTree. MORE >>
The Egg House
We love the idea of little egg-shaped dwellings. Clearly, so does Dai Haifei, a young architecture graduate from Beijing, who recently erected a tiny pod on the sidewalk of his home town. MORE >>
Log House on Wheels
We love this design for a log cabin inspired by a log pile. It was created by designer Piet Hein Eek, more usually known for his sculptural wooden furniture. It was custom-built for musician/entertainer Hans Liberg in Hilversum, the Netherlands. Click below to see how it transforms.
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The Tree Hotel and Other Swinging Spots
Yes, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
August 22,2009: we wanted to know where the cabins in the picture below are located, and you answered. Three got it right, and we pulled the winner for a free three-night stay at our cabins close to Yosemite, California.
Igloos without the ice
I love igloos, but let’s face it… ice is cold, and it melts. While I’d be curious to try an igloo sometime, I’d much rather rest my weary head in a space that won’t freeze my toes or trickle away while I’m sleeping. You’d imagine igloos would be popular in Antarctica, but it’s reassuring to hear that for 25 years now, workers there have been living in these: Igloo Satellite Cabins, small, insulated, pre-fabricated pods that can stand up to extreme weather conditions and be carried from place to place by helicopter.
