- Project: V-Lodge
- Architect: Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter
- Location: Norway, Ål
- Year: 2013
- Area: 119 m2
- Photography: Soren Harder Nielsen
Perched at 960 meters above sea level in the mountains above Ål, Norway, the V-Lodge by Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter is a 120-square-meter all-year cabin designed for a family of five. Completed in 2013, this retreat exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern Scandinavian minimalism and deep respect for the natural landscape.
A Design Rooted in Topography
The V-Lodge’s distinctive V-shaped plan comprises two gabled volumes connected at a 45-degree angle. One wing houses the entrance, kitchen, dining, and living areas, aligned with the terrain’s contours. The other wing descends with the slope, containing three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a youth lounge. This configuration allows the structure to integrate seamlessly with the site’s natural topography, creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Material Simplicity and Warmth
Clad in untreated, short-hauled pine, the exterior of the V-Lodge is designed to weather naturally, blending into the surrounding birch forest over time. Inside, walls and ceilings are lined with pine plywood, and a cast-in-situ concrete element combines the fireplace and kitchen counter. This minimalist material palette fosters a warm, cohesive interior that emphasizes craftsmanship and connection to nature.
Embracing the Landscape
Floor-to-ceiling glazed openings throughout the cabin provide ample daylight and unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. At the junction of the two wings, a glazed chamfered corner offers panoramic vistas and serves as a contemplative sitting niche. The design creates microclimate zones around the cabin, enhancing outdoor living opportunities and reinforcing the bond between the dwelling and its environment.
A Testament to Thoughtful Architecture
The V-Lodge stands as a testament to Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter’s commitment to creating architecture that is both contextually sensitive and functionally adept. By thoughtfully responding to the site’s natural features and the family’s needs, the V-Lodge offers a serene, adaptable retreat that resonates with the rhythms of its mountainous setting.
