dom arquitectura perches energy efficient timber cabin on the spanish hillside
all images courtesy of dom arquitectura

 

 

 

nestled in between the tress on a hillside near the small city of sant cugat del vallès near barcelona, dom arquitectura has built this compact timber cabin called ‘the wood studio house’. the build focuses on a number methods to minimize the effect on the landscape, the project is an exercise in sustainable design to provide a comfortable respite for the inhabitants.

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the sheltered porch looks out over the hillside

 

 

 

the exterior framework was constructed completely in locally sourced fir wood. along with thermal efficiency, timber is a material of choice due to the lower CO2 emissions an easy prefabricated assembly process. continued within, a three-layered plywood with pine finish was used throughout.

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the orientation of the house/studio were taken into careful consideration maximize the site’s climatic conditions

 

 

 

the careful integration of the double-glazed windows and shading allows the south-facing orientation of the longer side to constantly welcome natural light. the other three elevations contain fewer openings to encourage natural cross ventilation during the summer months. the single-storey home has been seamlessly divided into two living spaces which works with the rectangular floor-plan. a sheltered porch with a overhang simultaneously shades the glass to prevent overheat inside, while providing unobstructed views over the forested landscape.

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the main living space with a log fire at the core

 

 

 

in addition to solar panels and the recyclable construction methods, the wood studio house contains a rain water harvesting system installed beneath the home. the water collected is used for irrigation of the lawns and the organic vegetable garden to promote the owners self sufficiency.

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the interiors were finished with a three-layer plywood

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 natural cross ventilation, result in fresh and breathable interiors during the summer months

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seven tanks have been placed underneath the house which can hold up to 10 cubic meters of water

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solar panels have been placed on the roof to produce ACS for the bathroom