Winter Cabin on Mount Kanin, near Bovec, Slovenia, is our proof that you can build with a Sylva kit of parts in the most remote and hard to reach places on earth. Designed by OFIS Arhitekti and constructed by our partners CBD d.o.o., in 2015, the cabin is situated in a remote and harsh mountain environment, accessible only by climbing or helicopter.

Architectural design

The design of the Winter Cabin on Mount Kanin was driven by the need to withstand the harsh mountain conditions, including strong winds, heavy snowfall, and extreme weather. The architects at OFIS Arhitekti responded to these challenges with specific architectural forms and structures that ensure the cabin's stability and durability. The cabin's compact size, with an area of just 20 square meters, is a deliberate choice to minimize its footprint and environmental impact.

The cabin's angular form helps to deflect strong winds and shed snow, reducing the risk of structural damage. The use of Sylva™ CLT Floors, Roofs, and Walls provides excellent thermal insulation, crucial for maintaining a comfortable interior temperature in such a cold environment. The prefabricated kit of parts supplied by Stora Enso, is known for its strength, stability, and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for this project.

The cabin's construction was carefully planned to minimize its impact on the natural surroundings. Given the remote location, all materials had to be transported by helicopter, which required precise logistics and planning. The prefabricated CLT panels were manufactured off-site, ensuring high quality and precision. This prefabrication also reduced the amount of on-site construction work, minimizing disruption to the environment.

Structural integrity and performance

The cabin's foundation is designed to have minimal impact on the ground. It is elevated on small concrete piers, which reduces the amount of excavation required and minimizes soil disturbance. This approach protects the natural landscape and ensures that the cabin is securely anchored to the rocky terrain.

Interior

Despite its small size, the Winter Cabin is designed to be functional and comfortable. The interior layout maximizes the use of space, providing essential amenities for shelter and rest. The use of Sylva CLT for the interior Walls and Floors creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, with the natural wood finish adding to the cabin's aesthetic appeal.

The cabin is divided into three main areas: a sleeping area, a living area, and a small kitchenette. The sleeping area is designed to accommodate up to nine people, with bunk beds that make efficient use of the vertical space. The living area includes seating and storage, providing a place for occupants to relax and store their gear. The kitchenette is equipped with basic cooking facilities, allowing for the preparation of simple meals.

The elements are relatively lightweight and easy to assemble, which reduced the amount of time and labor required on-site.

The cabin has also had a positive impact on the local community and the broader architectural community. It has attracted attention from architects and engineers around the world, who are interested in its innovative design and sustainable construction practices. The project has been featured in numerous architectural publications and was nominated for the Mies van der Rohe Award 2017, which is one of the most prestigious architecture awards in Europe.