Vega Cottage – A Small Getaway Set in the Norwegian Archipelago

This small cabin by Kolman Boye Architects can be found on the island of Vega in Norway. Vega itself is set within the Norwegian archipelago, not far from the polar circle, meaning that the cabin had to be designed to withstand the sometimes harsh weather conditions.

Referred to as Vega Cottage, the cabin is located not far from the ocean shore and is surrounded by the jagged peaks of the northern landscape. When designing the cabin the architects took inspiration from a series of traditional seaside huts, called Naust, found nearby. Their aim was to create a contemporary Naust.

From the outside, its diminutive size and form help Vega Cottage to sit quietly among the landscape. Access is granted from the rear of the house so as to avoid disturbing the interior views toward the sea. According to the architects the entryway forms “a narrow natural ravine densely grown with gnarled birch shrubs and laid out with sea-sand from the nearby shore.”

The cabin itself contains two levels, and allocates a generous amount of its floor plan to creating social spaces, despite its small size. The upper level contains the bedrooms, whereas the lower level acts almost as a gallery space, providing panoramic views out over the environment.

The interior is finished in white throughout, with wooden floors and trim for the windows and doors. The windows feature optically white glass so as not to detract from the views. Like a gallery, the interior is quite bare, featuring only a few items of furniture.

From the architects: “Upon completion of the house the clients’ father, who spent his childhood in the close vicinity, visited the cottage. Being able to sit down – for the first time – sheltered from the elements; he stayed seated for several hours silently observing the ever-changing light over the sea.”

For more cabins check out this rustic retreat set on the shores of Femunden in Norway. Or, Gaudin House, a barn converted into a comfortable small cabin in the Swiss Alps. See all cabins.

Via Contemporist
Photos: Åke E:son Lindman