Hyttehouse

Hyttehouse is a renovation of a ramshackle cabin perched on a boulder, overlooking a picturesque lake in the forested foothills of northwestern Connecticut. The interiors of the original cabin were inward facing and dark, depriving the inhabitants of natural light, views of the surrounding tree canopy, and the beautiful lake beyond. Poor placement of interior bedrooms, millwork components, bathrooms, windows, and dropped ceilings all prevented the home from allowing views and light, and the inherent joy of experiencing this, to its new inhabitants. We were called upon by the client the help them fix this. While the scale and budget of the project were humble, the client’s commitment to good design, as well as the beautiful context of the project ultimately made it a perfect fit for our design approach.

The overall project involved a full gut renovation of the interiors, room reconfigurations, new plumbing, electrical and HVAC systems, new windows, new kitchen and bathrooms, exterior refinishing, new deck and overall site strategy that emphasized and a celebrated views and true connections to the surrounding landscape. Steel was added where necessary to solidify the structure and allow cathedral ceilings throughout the space. One wing of the living space was lifted two feet higher to maximize views to the lake and create a more cohesive living space. A steel lintel was also added to allow for a panoramic window facing the lake from the living and kitchen areas. The overall effect of these strategic moves results in a light-filled space that celebrates the surrounding treescape.

The new airiness of the space was further enhanced by the minimalist and light Scandinavian interior palette reminiscent of a modern Nordic Hytte, the wilderness cabins found throughout Norway’s countryside which can be traditional and passed down through generations, or new and modern, as is the case with this old/new weekend home. This eventually inspired the playful nickname of Hyttehouse.

Photography by Michael Biondo