Dec 01, 2015 • Small House
Thoreau’s Cabin – A Small Off-Grid Retreat Set in a Woodland Park
This bright green cabin has been designed by architects CC-Studio. It’s set within the bounds of Noorderpark in Utrecht, the Netherlands – a 5,900 acre park that’s run with the help of volunteers. The location and the fact that it’s off-grid has lead the architects to name it Thoreau’s Cabin.
Thoreau’s Cabin replaces an existing structure, a storage and break room for park maintenance that was built back in 1966. Due to its size and function, they were able to rebuild the shelter without a permit, simplifying the construction process.
The cabin contains a floor plan totalling 377 square feet (35 square meters). It’s small size helps to prevent it from becoming overbearing on the immediate surroundings. Instead, the presence of the cabin is only revealed at the last moment through a scattering of trees and bushes.
With no running water, the cabin has a simple floor plan. The bulk of the property is taken up by a large living room, which can also be used for storage. At the back of the unit there’s a separate bedroom and laundry/bathroom area.
Being off-grid means there’s no running water, electricity, or plumbed heating. Instead the occupants rely on the large central wood-burning stove to keep the interior comfortable. Local firewood is used for both the stove and cooking in the kitchenette.
Without electricity, natural lighting is a priority. They’ve addressed the issue with several large window openings and a series of sliding patio doors. The patio doors, when retracted, help to blur the line between inside and out, allowing the cabin to integrate itself more fully into the park.
For more cabins and small houses check out Andrews Simpson’s cozy tiny house perched on a mountainside in New Zealand. Or, Zilvar, a low-energy home in Czech Republic by Asgk Design. See all small houses.
4 Comments
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Dee
December 5, 2015 at 5:19 pm
Why would you need a laundry area if there is no running water?
Skeet
December 5, 2015 at 5:30 pm
I agree with Dee; with no running water how could anyone have a laundry area and what do they propose for human waste? I have a whole lot of experience with outdoor facilities and it ain’t easy.
Michael Montcombroux
December 6, 2015 at 3:06 pm
Dry cleaning, perhaps?
Sorry, I couldn’t resist. Great question.
Michael
Karen Call
December 23, 2015 at 7:56 am
Hi Skeet:
Answer to first question:
Rainwater barrels and a pond w/ filtration = laundry area.
Answer to second question:
Composting toilets.