Our homes are our greatest sanctuary. You can just imagine what lengths are people willing to go to just to protect them, right? So if the house owner doesn’t want to spend tons of money for security and alarm systems, then his best bet will be to have his house hidden.
Hidden? I know, right? How can you have a comfortable house if it is hidden, ugly, and cramped?
Hidden, yes. But ugly and cramped? I don’t think so.
1. Mountainside Lodge in Norway
Don’t underestimate this small curved hunting lodge in the mountainside of Åkrafjorden in Norway. As small as it may seem, this little structure can hold 21 people comfortably.
The concept of the structure is to incorporate it as much as possible into this untouched part of the mountain. It can only be reached by foot or by horse which makes it a perfect and quiet getaway.
2. Hidden House in London
“This special place is hidden, part building, part garden, mostly sky. It’s difficult to find but well worth the effort.”
This little house that is hidden from the road is indeed a delightful find to those who will come across it. The structure sits on top of a former Victorian prison vault from the 19th century.
The architects stripped off the caretaker’s cabin that was originally in the Hidden House’s place and created a structure that is “specifically designed to not draw attention to itself on the exterior while maximizing space and light.”
3. Earth-Sheltered Triangular House In Texas
The Edgeland House in Austin, Texas is designed by Bercy Chen Studio. In one angle, it looks like a house just sprouted out of the earth. But from another angle, prepare to be awestruck at this beautiful, triangular piece or art … er, architecture!
Another view of the house shows a mini infinity pool that is perfect for relaxing, just imagine the warmth while enjoying the view and the peace the surrounding brings. The sod that is covering the roof acts as an insulator for the house, keeping it cool during summer and warm during winter.
4. Hole in the Wall in the U.K.
During the 14th century, walls were built in the U.K. to provide fortifications from the frequent battles between Scottish and English soldiers. When 16th century came, a new wall was built and the earlier wall was left to be destroyed, or used as restaurants, businesses, and even houses.
One of the houses inside the wall is Jim Perry and Susie Seui’s “the hole in the wall.” Unbelievably, their one-bedroom house was a cozy one, and one that you won’t expect would be inside a wall. They put it up for sale in 2016 for £65,000.
5. Underground House in Knightsbridge
This is another hidden house in Knightsbridge, which was at one time a retail shop and a workshop. The city rules restrained the architects to build a higher structure but they have to think of a way to utilize the space for the family that is going to live there.
They made use of a lightwell that is partially covered by glass floor on the level ground. This is to guide light through the spaces below. There is also a sunken garden at the back of the house meant to give the rooms their share of natural light.
Books aren’t the only ones you can’t judge by the cover. Houses too, have their fair share of judging. I hope these houses made you realize never to judge them by their façade!
Image via Inhabitat
