There’s a house by the seaside in Norway – on the rocks. Nestled among the boulders of Sandefjord, on Norway’s south-east coast, Cabin Knapphullet by Lund Hagem was created as an annex to a summer home. But this gorgeous seaside retreat is a place you’ll never want to leave. Not quite 100 SF (30 meters), it has plenty of light and plenty of view and feels much, much larger. Surrounded by weather beaten boulders, the extreme privacy was part of the plan – despite it being a primarily glass house. And the stepped concrete roof? It leads to a viewing platform – concrete stairs to your private deck. Panoramic ocean views make it the perfect place for a sundown drink. Here’s to glorious sunsets on the Norwegian coast.
Just like a normal set of stairs. Except it’s angled roof to your house. And it leads to a most incredible view.
Of course, given that the house is primarily glazed glass walls, the view from below isn’t bad either. We love the minimalist fire pit.
The cabin’s ceiling is covered with simplistic strips of basket-woven oak.
Rocky topography helps shelter this small modern cabin – and it seems to merge with the landscape around it.
The minimally furnished retreat makes use of its small footprint with space-saving features such as an oak sleeping platform that is suspended from the cabin’s basket-woven ceiling. A wood burning stove warms the concrete-floored space.
At the ground level, a concrete patio creates a sheltered, outdoor area with an open fire – an area which can be enjoyed year round.
Cement benches throughout the house provide minimalist seating. Along with the cement floors, they allow the view – and the design – to be the thing.
Some walls are made with sawn oak, but most are glazed glass, to show off the spectacular ocean views.
Designing this modern cabin was all about maximizing the view, while using the privacy and protection from elements that the large outcropping of rocks would provide.
The cabin seems to come out of nowhere – but the design is in harmony with its surroundings. Using cement as a main material went a long way to blending with the rocky landscape.
This charming cabin welcomes you in the evening with her warm glow. Can you picture yourself here?
The sleeping platform makes good use of the small footprint. Fitted beneath the bed is the living space and bathroom.
More cement benches that blend with the background – along with the glass walls. It’s hard to tell you’re inside!
What a wonderful little (literal) hole-in-the wall escape from the world! As mentioned, it was designed as an annex to the main house, so there is no kitchen. But it has everything you need for overflow guests – or as a place to run away yourself.
Site Plan.
Slice.
Photography by: Kim Müller
Architect: Lund Hagem
