Kashubian House

The region of Kashubia in northwest Poland is lush with pine trees, crystal-clear lakes, and an abundance of sprawling planes. The wide open spaces challenge architects: How can one design a home that exists within and demonstrates an understated respect for the countryside’s natural excellence? For architect Grzegorz Layer, the solution was to use a black timber frame to disappear into the rolling hills. Wide windows offer a visual transition between the warm tones of the interior and the luscious greenery that surrounds the house on a hill above Lake Gowindlinski. The house is relatively small, but its asymmetrical roof accommodates a relatively spacious upper mezzanine and guest bedrooms.

Venture into the woods and discover more cabins, retreats, and other hideaways in our book The Hinterland.