Kujdane Holiday House

The "hovering" effect of Kujdane Holiday House is the result of a deliberate structural and visual strategy. Instead of a conventional foundation that fully connects the building to the ground, we designed a system of elevated platforms supported by concealed steel beams. These beams are strategically recessed to remain invisible from most perspectives, creating the illusion that the house is floating above the landscape.To maintain structural integrity, we utilized a lightweight yet robust steel framework combined with cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels. The steel beams distribute the load efficiently, ensuring stability even in the humid and seismic-prone environment of Gilan. Additionally, the design reduces the footprint on the natural terrain, allowing the house to integrate harmoniously with its surroundings while minimizing environmental impact.This floating effect is not merely aesthetic; it also enhances the connection between the house and nature. By elevating the structure, we reduced direct contact with moisture from the ground, improving durability while providing residents with an uninterrupted visual experience of the lush landscape beneath.

The inspiration behind the centralized glass core came from the idea of creating an uninterrupted vertical connection between the earth and the sky, reinforcing the experience of being immersed in nature. Rather than designing a fully enclosed cabin, we wanted to introduce a transparent element that would allow natural light to penetrate deep into the house while visually extending the space beyond its physical boundaries.This feature functions as both an architectural and experiential element. In different seasons, the glass core transforms the perception of the interior: in spring and summer, it floods the space with light, creating an airy and open atmosphere, while in autumn and winter, it frames the changing sky and falling rain, offering a dynamic visual experience.Additionally, the core plays a functional role in natural ventilation. Acting as a chimney effect, it facilitates passive cooling by allowing warm air to escape upwards, reducing the need for artificial climate control. This sustainable approach not only enhances comfort but also aligns with the house’s minimal environmental footprint.By integrating this vertical glass structure, Kujdane Holiday House becomes more than just a shelter—it becomes a dynamic observatory, allowing its inhabitants to experience the elements in a way that is rarely felt in conventional homes.

The design process of Kujdane Holiday House was driven by the challenge of merging tradition with contemporary aesthetics while maintaining a seamless, unified composition. We approached this by identifying key elements from both styles and strategically integrating them to enhance rather than contradict each other.The traditional A-frame silhouette, a familiar cabin archetype, provided a strong starting point. This form is deeply rooted in vernacular architecture, offering both structural efficiency and a nostalgic sense of warmth. However, to modernize this typology, we refined its geometry, introduced expansive glazing, and incorporated clean, minimalist detailing.Material selection played a crucial role in this balance. The use of natural wood honors traditional craftsmanship, while its precise, refined application reflects modern sensibilities. The juxtaposition of warm timber with sleek glass and steel elements creates a dialogue between past and present, preserving the essence of a classic cabin while introducing contemporary openness and fluidity.Furthermore, the spatial organization follows a modern logic. Instead of compartmentalized rooms, we opted for an open-plan layout, enhancing connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces. The centralized glass core acts as a unifying element, reinforcing the contrast between the organic warmth of wood and the crisp transparency of glass.Ultimately, Kujdane Holiday House is a reinterpretation of traditional cabin living, where nostalgia and innovation coexist harmoniously. It is a space that feels both timeless and forward-thinking, offering a familiar yet refreshed experience of retreating into nature.