Norwegian mountain cabins are no longer what they once were. Now, they should be elegant, bright and open, preferably with an atmosphere of Norwegian folk tales. Learn more about Norwegian «Mountain Modern» cabins.
Cabins have become a chance for owners and designers alike to make a statement piece of modern architecture in a beautiful natural setting. Norway has lots of big mountains and rugged landscapes which makes it a perfect place to search for beautiful and inspiring cabin designs. Here we have made a sample collection based on design, surroundings and overall appeal. Each is different and unique but they all share in common a modern design approach and a respect for nature and its magnificent beauty.
The cabin on Hardangervidda, designed by architects Elisabeth Hoem and Stig Folstad, is reminiscent of a giant stone that the ice left here ten thousand years ago. It is inspired by a cairn shed that was erected on the bare mountains in Western Norway to protect hikers from the extreme weather.
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Related: Magnificent Mountain Hotel in Norway
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A cabin outside of Hønefoss is situated on a steep hillside and has beautiful views of the fjord below. Because it is relatively exposed to the elements, the architects carefully designed the shape of the house to protect its occupants in the interior and exterior spaces. Designed by Atelier Oslo.
The cabin below is situated at the center of Norway, in the beautiful mountains above Oppdal. Its name translated as The Diamong Cabin is a reference to its angular and unusual geometry. It was designed by studio A38 Arkitekter and completed in 2019 and it’s a small structure with a total surface of 45 square meters.
This cabin on Kvitfjell (above), designed by Div. A Arkitekter, offers a traditional mountain atmosphere. It was built in 1999 and is 200 square meters. The architects proposed something rooted in the Norwegian character. Despite strict regulations in the area, the cabin was given a modern and almost timeless expression with clear references to tradition: The simple and elongated shape is inspired by the barns in Gudbrandsdalen.
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Related: Spectacular Autum in a Norwegian High Mountain Lodge
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This weathered and secluded Norwegian mountain cabin has a magnificent view. and strict building regulation determined the design of this secluded cabin. The high altitude mountain area of Imingfjell, Norway, is beautiful, but weathered and windblown. Designed by Arkitektværelset.
Due to the high altitude, harsh weather conditions, and the risk of avalanches, the region has strict building regulations for new properties. Keeping this in mind, the project, also known as ‘Hooded Cabin’, was designed by the architects to look as if protected by a wooden ‘hood’, in order to confront the potential of strong winds and rain. “Norway is beautiful, but weathered and windblown,” state the architects. “Limitations are the mother of all playful creativity, and in this case it became a goal to create within the boundaries,” they explain. The cabin’s angular, wooden forms present an arresting contrast to the black painted structure, which faces outwards with panoramic views of the lake and mountains ahead.
The modern Norwegian mountain municipalities want to retain their authentic character. Local authorities collaborate to create good brands in beautiful nature and well-developed business models. They have mostly succeeded.
Norwegian “Mountain Modern” Cabins, compiled by Tor Kjolberg