The house designed by R21 Arkitekter is sheltered beneath a separate roof structure. Its layout comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living areas, and terraces. The communal space occupies the center of the floor plan and extends outward, while the bedrooms are tucked behind walls to ensure privacy while maintaining a connection to the surroundings.
The red concrete base echoes the tones of the earth and will allow vegetation to gradually cover it; above, the copper roof will evolve over time, developing its own unique patina. Inside, light-toned wood and stone—combined with precise joinery and construction details—create a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Cabin Ostøya by R21 Arkitekter. Photograph by Ruben Ratkusic.
Project description by R21 Arkitekter
The project forms part of the coastal protection plan of the municipality of Bærum and is located on the island of Ostøya, overlooking the open landscape of the fjord. The new cabin occupies the footprint of the existing building.
The project is based on a simple idea: to build upon what already exists. The rectangular geometry of the former cabin is preserved and becomes the ordering principle of the new house. A perimeter concrete wall anchors the building to the ground. It is wall, plinth and boundary. It retains the earth while, at the same time, allowing the landscape to continue beyond it.
The house is placed on this base. The roof, an independent copper element, is lifted from the ground and appears to float above the house. A precise arrangement of columns supports it and establishes the rhythm of the exterior façades.
The programme comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living areas and terraces. The living spaces form the centre of the house and extend towards the terraces and the landscape beyond. The bedrooms, protected by the walls, maintain a sense of privacy while remaining open to the exterior.
The glazed enclosure establishes a direct relationship with the landscape, while external wooden screens filter the light. The red concrete of the plinth echoes the tones of the earth and will gradually become integrated with the surrounding vegetation. The copper roof will change over time, developing its own patina. Inside, wood and light-coloured stone create a warm and domestic atmosphere. Together with careful attention to precision and detail, these elements give the building an intimate sense of home.
