in the mountains of northern vietnam, architect chu văn đông has completed a gabled micro-dwelling with a glazed façade that overlooks its rural surroundings. the brief was to construct a temporary shelter — capable of accommodating two people — quickly, easily, and at a low cost. perched on pilotis and surrounded by natural vegetation, the structure is appropriately titled ‘forest house’ and intends to form part of a larger masterplan with other identical dwellings.

chu văn đông chu van dong
all images by handyman

 

 

in completing the project, chu văn đông — who is also project manager at handyman decor & furniture — designed a simple timber volume with an entirely glazed elevation that offers views across the undulating landscape. internally, the cabin has everything you may require for a night’s stay, including beds for two and power outlets. an air conditioning unit is also provided for the country’s warmer months, while a stove is capable of offering heat during the winter.

chu văn đông chu van dong
the micro-dwelling features a glazed façade that overlooks its rural surroundings

chu văn đông chu van dong
the temporary shelter is capable of accommodating overnight guests

chu văn đông chu van dong
perched on pilotis, the design is surrounded by natural vegetation

chu văn đông chu van dong
the entirely glazed elevation offers views across the undulating landscape

chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam
the cabin can host two people

chu văn đông chu van dong
the cabin provides everything you may require for a night’s stay

chu văn đông chu van dong
lighting is suspended from the timber roof

chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam
a small washroom is also included

chu văn đông chu van dong
the structure is appropriately titled ‘forest house’

chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam
the jacuzzi at the rear of the property

 

 

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chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam designboom
 
chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam designboom
 
chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam designboom
 
chu văn đông perches 'forest house' in the mountains of northern vietnam designboom
 

project info:

 

architect in charge: chu văn đông
location: sóc sơn – hà nội
design team: nguyễn anh tuấn, vương thùy giang
area: 12 sqm
project year: 2017
photography: handyman
cost: $3,000