Woodnest, two shelters like nests among the branches overlooking the horizon

Woodnest, two treehouses on the steep wooded hills around the Hardangerfjord. A project where architecture is a specific response to the topography and conditions of the site itself. Each treehouse is suspended 5-6m above the forest floor and secured with a steel collar to the trunk of a pine tree.

A walk that prepares us for the refuge

The journey to the Woodnest site begins with a picturesque 20-minute walk from the town of Odda, on the edge of the fjord, crossing a forest and following a steep winding path. This route introduces the visitor to the design philosophy, gradually preparing for immersion in architecture that blends seamlessly with the landscape. Each treehouse is accessible through a small wooden bridge, serving as a link between the ground and the structure, guiding the guest through a transition experience from the ground space to the canopy of the century-old trees. This project stands out among the most striking sustainable architecture projects, where the interaction between construction and natural context is a fundamental element.

15 square meters welcome a functional design

The interior space of each housing unit, designed by the Helen & Hard studio, is only 15 square meters, but it is organized with extreme care to ensure comfort and functionality. At the center of the environment is the tree trunk, around which the architectural elements are developed. Each treehouse offers four beds, a bathroom, a kitchen area, and a cozy living space, all distributed optimally to make the most of every available centimeter. The large panoramic windows allow guests to visually immerse themselves in the landscape, providing a unique view among the treetops, with a gaze that opens up to the fjord below. This connection between interior and exterior creates a living experience where architecture becomes an extension of nature.

Wood, tradition, integration

The main material of the project is wood, a tribute to the Norwegian cultural traditions of vernacular architecture. The structure of the cabin is supported by the tree trunk, creating a symbiotic relationship between construction and nature. The exterior cladding is made of untreated natural wood shingles, forming a protective skin around the building. Over time, exposure to weather elements will transform these shingles, allowing the building to blend perfectly into the surrounding forest.

Rediscovering nature through architecture

Woodnest is a project that invites you to pause time, rediscover the beauty of nature, and appreciate its details. Here, architecture is not just a shelter, but a tool to connect with the daily rhythm of the forest, the texture of wood, the changing of seasons, and the unique sensation of living in nature while feeling part of it. This architectural experience, born from the balance between design, sustainability, and landscape, offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in a world where the essence of dwelling is defined by a harmonious relationship with the environment.

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Helen & Hard

Stortingsgata 12, 0161 Oslo, Norway