Interview about Kujdane Holiday House , winner of the A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award 2022
Kujdane retains the old while blending it with the new. It still has that A-frame silhouette like a traditional cabin in the woods but takes a step closer and sees that the structure has been tweaked with modern architectural elements. Wood is of course the element of choice to evoke that warm, cozy, cabin vibe and is complimented with cool-toned interior details for balance. The cabin is elevated by the sloping A-frame sides which makes it look like it is effortlessly hovering above ground level without visible stilts or pillars.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe "hovering" effect of Kujdane Holiday House is the result of a deliberate structural and visual strategy. Instead of a conventional foundation that fully connects the building to the ground, we designed a system of elevated platforms supported by concealed steel beams. These beams are strategically recessed to remain invisible from most perspectives, creating the illusion that the house is floating above the landscape.To maintain structural integrity, we utilized a lightweight yet robust steel framework combined with cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels. The steel beams distribute the load efficiently, ensuring stability even in the humid and seismic-prone environment of Gilan. Additionally, the design reduces the footprint on the natural terrain, allowing the house to integrate harmoniously with its surroundings while minimizing environmental impact.This floating effect is not merely aesthetic; it also enhances the connection between the house and nature. By elevating the structure, we reduced direct contact with moisture from the ground, improving durability while providing residents with an uninterrupted visual experience of the lush landscape beneath.
The inspiration behind the centralized glass core came from the idea of creating an uninterrupted vertical connection between the earth and the sky, reinforcing the experience of being immersed in nature. Rather than designing a fully enclosed cabin, we wanted to introduce a transparent element that would allow natural light to penetrate deep into the house while visually extending the space beyond its physical boundaries.This feature functions as both an architectural and experiential element. In different seasons, the glass core transforms the perception of the interior: in spring and summer, it floods the space with light, creating an airy and open atmosphere, while in autumn and winter, it frames the changing sky and falling rain, offering a dynamic visual experience.Additionally, the core plays a functional role in natural ventilation. Acting as a chimney effect, it facilitates passive cooling by allowing warm air to escape upwards, reducing the need for artificial climate control. This sustainable approach not only enhances comfort but also aligns with the house’s minimal environmental footprint.By integrating this vertical glass structure, Kujdane Holiday House becomes more than just a shelter—it becomes a dynamic observatory, allowing its inhabitants to experience the elements in a way that is rarely felt in conventional homes.
The design process of Kujdane Holiday House was driven by the challenge of merging tradition with contemporary aesthetics while maintaining a seamless, unified composition. We approached this by identifying key elements from both styles and strategically integrating them to enhance rather than contradict each other.The traditional A-frame silhouette, a familiar cabin archetype, provided a strong starting point. This form is deeply rooted in vernacular architecture, offering both structural efficiency and a nostalgic sense of warmth. However, to modernize this typology, we refined its geometry, introduced expansive glazing, and incorporated clean, minimalist detailing.Material selection played a crucial role in this balance. The use of natural wood honors traditional craftsmanship, while its precise, refined application reflects modern sensibilities. The juxtaposition of warm timber with sleek glass and steel elements creates a dialogue between past and present, preserving the essence of a classic cabin while introducing contemporary openness and fluidity.Furthermore, the spatial organization follows a modern logic. Instead of compartmentalized rooms, we opted for an open-plan layout, enhancing connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces. The centralized glass core acts as a unifying element, reinforcing the contrast between the organic warmth of wood and the crisp transparency of glass.Ultimately, Kujdane Holiday House is a reinterpretation of traditional cabin living, where nostalgia and innovation coexist harmoniously. It is a space that feels both timeless and forward-thinking, offering a familiar yet refreshed experience of retreating into nature.
Wood was not just a material choice in Kujdane Holiday House—it was a fundamental element shaping the entire spatial experience. Our goal was to create an environment that feels warm and inviting while maintaining a refined, modern aesthetic. Achieving this required careful selection of wood species, finishes, and detailing.We primarily used locally sourced hardwood, chosen for its durability and natural resistance to Gilan’s humid climate. The exterior features a thermally treated wood cladding, which not only enhances longevity but also develops a rich patina over time, allowing the house to age gracefully within its environment. Inside, we opted for light-toned wood with a smooth finish to reflect natural light and create an airy yet cozy ambiance.To balance tradition with modernity, we focused on precise detailing and clean lines. Rather than using overly rustic textures, we incorporated sleek, continuous wood paneling and custom joinery that emphasize craftsmanship. This subtle refinement prevents the interior from feeling overly traditional while preserving the organic warmth of natural materials.Additionally, the contrast between wood and other materials—such as glass and steel—adds depth to the design. The warmth of timber softens the sharp geometry of modern elements, creating a dynamic interplay between textures. By layering different tones and grains, we achieved a space that is both contemporary and deeply connected to nature, making Kujdane Holiday House feel like a true sanctuary.
The most significant challenges in designing Kujdane Holiday House stemmed from our desire to innovate while respecting the essence of traditional cabin architecture. Holiday homes, by their very nature, need to be welcoming and functional, yet the challenge lies in elevating this archetype into something more dynamic, sustainable, and responsive to its natural context.One of the main hurdles was balancing the need for a comfortable, intimate retreat with the desire for an expansive, open living space. Traditional cabins tend to be more compartmentalized, creating a sense of privacy but often restricting spatial flow. We sought to break down these walls by creating an open-plan interior that fosters connectivity and an unhindered relationship with nature, yet without losing the cozy, enclosed feel of a cabin.Another challenge was integrating modern, sustainable elements into the design without disrupting the cabin's traditional character. We introduced innovative features like passive ventilation through the glass core, solar panels, and high-performance insulation—designing them in a way that didn’t interfere with the cabin’s rustic charm. Achieving this required not only technical innovation but also a careful aesthetic balance to maintain a cohesive visual language.Lastly, working with the specific climate of Gilan added a layer of complexity. The region’s humidity and rainfall required us to choose materials and construction methods that were resilient, while the ever-changing weather demanded designs that could adapt to varying environmental conditions. We were committed to making the design not only beautiful but also durable and sustainable, ensuring it could withstand the test of time while offering year-round comfort.Through these challenges, Kujdane Holiday House emerged as a design that reinterprets the classic cabin with a modern approach, setting new standards for holiday home architecture in both functionality and aesthetics.
The full-height glazing creates a seamless connection between the interior and the landscape, enhancing the sense of openness. It brings in abundant natural light, which brightens the space and minimizes the need for artificial lighting. The curvature of the profile helps with passive ventilation, making the space more energy-efficient while maintaining comfort throughout the year. This feature adds both aesthetic appeal and functional value, blending beauty with practicality.
The local climate of Gilan, with its high humidity and frequent rainfall, strongly influenced our material choices. We selected durable, moisture-resistant woods for the exterior to ensure longevity. The thermally treated cladding protects the house from the elements while developing a unique patina over time. Inside, we used lighter woods to contrast with the darker exterior, creating a balanced aesthetic. These material decisions not only ensure the house’s resilience but also create a harmonious connection with the surrounding natural environment.
The balance between warm wooden elements and cool-toned details in the interior was achieved through careful selection of materials. We used rich, warm woods for furniture and paneling, while introducing cooler tones through modern finishes like metal accents and neutral textiles. This contrast creates a sense of warmth without feeling overwhelming, offering a calm, inviting atmosphere. The interplay of these elements allows the space to feel both cozy and contemporary, reflecting the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Working together as brothers brought a unique dynamic to the design process. We were able to combine our individual strengths—one focusing on the structural aspects, while the other concentrated on the aesthetic and experiential elements. This synergy allowed us to approach the project from multiple perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded and cohesive design. Our shared vision and collaborative spirit helped us push boundaries and create a space that feels both innovative and deeply personal.
Kujdane Holiday House represents a new direction in holiday home architecture, blending traditional design with modern innovations. We believe this project will inspire future holiday homes in Iran and beyond, particularly in how they integrate with their natural surroundings while offering sustainable, year-round living. The use of local materials, sustainable building techniques, and the focus on creating a connection between the interior and the landscape will set new standards for future designs in this field.
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