fredrikstad-based handegård arkitektur has built a tiny red-painted boathouse on the edge of a small harbor in norway. standing on a set of granite pillars planted into the water, the small hut is composed of a galvanized steel frame and wood, adopting the look of a traditional boathouse with a modern twist. the contemporary design language and materiality draw reference from local architecture, and therefore help the structure blend harmoniously into its surroundings. 

all images by carlos rollan, unless stated otherwise

at first, the cabin by handegård arkitektur looks just like a traditional small boathouse painted in red, with a closed and modest character. at second glance, one can notice that the building is closed in the back and opens toward the front in order to provide shelter and unobstructed seafront views at the same time. 

with their design, the architects wanted to form a contemporary structure that fits harmoniously into the local context, without disrupting it. this is achieved by creating a volume that is differentiated thanks to a selection of scarce details, instead of entire surfaces such as the roof and walls. all elements and materials are treated with the same color to enhance the experience of the volume.

inside, wooden floors and ceilings complete the interior, which also includes a small toilet room whose walls support the entire construction. topped by the wooden gable roof, the main room is formed by the thick lattice walls, which are enforced by narrow transparent acrylic panels mounted between each panel. the doors are made in the same way, both with and without acrylic panels. 

architects: handegård arkitektur location: norway

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