Sitting nestled within the dense forest of Mon-Tremblant valley in Quebec, Canada is Hinterhouse Retreat, a sustainably clad wooden house by MRDK Architecture and Design studio, created for Hintercompany. The small dwelling has been designed to be prefabricated and can be transported locally and delivered to different sites.

“The Hintercompany hotel concept aims to provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing its guests with an opportunity to strengthen their connection with nature”, explain the architects.

Despite the houses humble size, the interiors feel spacious and welcoming. Two bedrooms, a bathroom, and open-plan living space have all been cleverly planned to maximise space and functionality. Floor-to-ceiling glazing on both sides of the living room invites the surrounding landscape inside, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior space.

“A maple farmhouse table, crafted with bridle joints, doubles as a kitchen island – one of the most space-saving techniques in the house,” MRDK explain. “A custom vessel-sink raises a cutting board to a comfortable height and is compartmentalized to include a herb garden full of basil, mint, and sage.” A very special moment exists in the bathroom, where a large window provides expansive views of the forest while showering – we definitely can’t think of a better backdrop!

The main structure of the house was built out of sustainably-forested native wood. The exterior is clad with custom-milled white cedar boards that will age gracefully, ensuring the home will blend in with its surrounding environment with time. Operable shutters wrap the exterior, controlling light access and privacy within.

To complete the picturesque setting, a winding staircase embedded within the side of the hill leads inhabitants down to a sauna and outdoor shower. This Scandinavian-inspired space unfolds with the same language as the main house, only on a much smaller scale.

[Images courtesy of MRDK. Photography by David Dworkind.]