verstas architects: city cottage

‘city cottage’ by verstas architects located in helsinki, finland image © andreas meichsner

finland-based practice verstas architects has created the ‘city cottage’, a single family residence located in helsinki finland. this 14 square meter cabin is a prototype for a fully functional and transportable dwelling. located within the city limits amidst a nature preserve, inhabitants may feel removed from civilization while living a short walking or biking distance from everyday activities. best suited as a secondary home, its serves as a site for gathering and relaxation for family members during daily breaks and for the weekend.

front facade image © andreas meichsner

energy needs are small enough to allow solar energy to entirely power the structure. ribbon windows above kitchen equipment allow a visual connection with nature and experientially extends the interior making the small space feel unbounded. entrances on either end of the galley kitchen introduces breezes to ventilate the home. fixed furniture and storage techniques typically found in boats are used to conceal personal effects and streamline the quaint interior. a single step separates the entryway and kitchen from living and sleeping areas utilizing the void for storage of dirty shoes and firewood. the couch may be converted into a bed and a rope ladder leads to a loft for sleeping.

the formal entrance uses cantilevered wood planks for steps image © andreas meichsner

a rock is used as a stoop for the secondary entrance image © andreas meichsner

transparency is created by wrapping windows around the corners of the structure image © andreas meichsner

two opposite entrances allow ventilation image © andreas meichsner

kitchen with outward views through ribbon window image © andreas meichsner

(left) separation between the living and kitchen space is created by a single step (right) panels may be opened to stow away personal effects images © andreas meichsner

verstas architects (2)