CEBRA designs summer house as an architectural russian babushka doll

when challenged to design a small-scale house with the same high level of architectural ambition that their practice is renowned for, CEBRA’s ‘treldehuset’ summer house goes beyond all expectations. the building not only rethinks the traditional pitched roof house, but also defines an architectural interpretation of the russian babushka doll. in this sense, the design is effectively a double house, with one inside a much bigger home.

all images courtesy of mikkel frost

located with views over the vejle fjord in denmark, it is this coastal atmosphere and its encouragement of active outdoor life that influenced the shaping of CEBRA’s design. the construction is characterized by a pitched roof that parallels the long sides of the site, with this and its façades covered in dark slate. stepping inside this form, there is a roofed outdoor area that acts as a thermal envelope and protector for the small house. lined in larch timber and aluminum profiles, this terrace poses as a continuation of the interior, especially in the summer when the sliding glass doors are open.

decked in a white finish paired with concrete and sheathing of larch, the interior of ‘treldehuset’ is divided into two parrallel spaces. the west side of the inner house is typically designated for the common rooms; the kitchen, dining area and living room. however, the master bedroom, which offers views over the fjord, is also located at that side of the house and can be opened up into the living space. the smaller rooms are located in at the east section of the building, including the bathrooms, utility room and guest room.