Embarking on a journey to explore some of the world’s most beautiful extreme homes offers a glimpse into the intersection of architectural marvels and breathtaking landscapes.
In this guide, we’ll take a virtual tour of homes that defy conventional norms, perched in stunning and challenging locations around the globe. From mountain retreats to seaside wonders, these extreme homes showcase the ingenuity of design and the audacity of those who call them home.
1. Cliffside Masterpieces:
Discover homes seemingly hanging off cliffs, perched on the edge of rugged landscapes. These architectural wonders provide unparalleled views while pushing the boundaries of design and engineering.
A Stunning Alpine Shelter For Hikers Built To Withstand The Elements – Sited in the Slovenian Alps, the bivouac is a shifting series of peaks, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment and providing scenic views for mountaineers who venture inside.
The project was an international collaboration between American students (Harvard GSD), Slovenian architects (OFIS Architects). And British engineers (AKT II) that resulted in the built design being installed by helicopter in August 2015.
From both sides of the shelter, one can experience the panoramic views of both Skuta and the valley. In contrast to the thick gray cladding of the exterior, the interior is a warm wood.
While the shelter’s interior engages the human form with beds that double as bench and fold out tables. They designed exterior to shield inhabitants from extreme weather conditions with high peaks that shed snow and a structural framework designed to resist avalanches.
2. Treehouse Escapes:
Explore elevated living in treehouse retreats nestled within dense forests. These homes offer a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Treehouse Escapes under the Northern lights in Northern Sweden just near the Arctic Circle, and it is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Situated 33 feet above the ground, it is supported by 12 pine columns in an isolated evergreen forest. And especially that designed like the traditional Nordic cabin.
From the large windows, you can settle in the cosiness of the light interior with your coffee. Then take in the marvellous views of the Swedish Lapland brightened by the winding Lule River. The biggest hit among visitors is the outdoor terrace on a netted base which allows amazing views of the Northern Lights.
3. Underground Marvels:
Delve into the world of subterranean living with homes seamlessly integrated into the earth. From energy-efficient designs to unique aesthetics, these underground dwellings redefine the concept of home.
There is a lovely historic turf house in Skagafjörður in North Iceland, called Glaumbær farm, and should not be missed while travelling in this area. The present farmhouse consists of 13 buildings and the “newest” addition to the turf house was built in 1876-1879. The oldest parts of the turf house date back to the mid-18th century. In 1947 Glaumbær was declared a protected site and is now owned by the National Museum of Iceland. It has been run as a museum by the Skagafjörður Heritage Museum since 1952.
If you visit the Glaumbær turf house and have a look inside…you can see how life in Iceland was back in the 18th and 19th centuries.
4. Floating Residences:
Witness the magic of homes that seemingly defy gravity by floating on water. Whether anchored in lakes, rivers, or seas. These aquatic residences showcase innovative design and a close connection to the water’s beauty.
West Coast Retreat at Nimmo Bay If you’re looking for a hidden oasis to spend your next getaway, keep it Canada and check out Nimmo Bay. Aside from simply sitting on a quiet dock at the edge of Vancouver Island, Nimmo Bay also offers whale watching, fishing, helicopter tours…and boat tours, among other add-on activities for your stay.
Nimmo Bay Reort was originally an an old float house from Gilford Island in Mount Waddington, BC. After refurbishment, it was transported to Nimmo Bay in April 1981 and opened for business that June. The project initially launched with room for eight visitors and quickly grew to accommodate 18.
The tranquil lodging at Nimmo Bay is surrounded by forested hillsides and natural waterfalls only accessible by boat, which attracts those seeking remote eco-tourism on the west coast. Despite its growing popularity, the land remains a seemingly un-touched slice of Canada. A resort that fuses with its surroundings – that’s a vacation we can get behind.
5. Mountain Haven Retreats:
Ascend to new heights with homes perched atop mountain peaks. These mountain retreats not only offer panoramic views but also…demonstrate the resilience of architecture against the challenges of high-altitude living.
Spaceship Landing: Ufogel House, which derives its name from its resemblance to a UFO and a vogel (meaning bird in German). This is a cozy wood-shingled house perched on stilts in East Tyrol, Austria.
There’s no better way to stoically face these long winter months like the coziness of a mountain house. Being able to see the snow, ear the rain and feel the wind yet being completely protected by a state of the art facility. Promise that your just happy you can call your own, there’s no other way around it, it’s priceless.
So while your making that cup of tea, picking your best blanket and finding what to watch next on Netflix. Let us take you through the wonderful and limited world of rustic mansions.
6. Desert Oasis Dwellings:
Journey into arid landscapes where homes are crafted to thrive in the midst of deserts. Innovative cooling techniques, sustainable design. And a seamless blend with the surroundings characterize these desert oasis dwellings.
This Moroccan Desert Oasis is the Perfect Otherworldly Escape- play, explore, and adventure at the heart of Morocco’s Agafay Desert.
Our home is a gateway to a world of imagination and discovery, where stories live hidden among rocky dunes, and dreams linger over the towering Atlas Mountains. This desert oasis has withstood the test of time, encouraging us to adventure out and explore—be it on the backs of camel, bicycles or foot. Along the way, we connect with the vibrant history of Morocco. Immersing ourselves in the tapestry of cultures that have shaped this land throughout the ages.
7. Ice and Snow Sanctuaries:
Explore the beauty of homes crafted for extreme cold climates, from igloo-inspired designs to modern ice hotels. These dwellings showcase the adaptability of architecture to the challenges posed by icy environments.
Dreamed to be in a place like Finland over the Holidays- Rudolph, sleigh rides, Santa’s home. Northern lights- it always seemed so magical to me and what more of a perfect time than to go over Christmas and the holidays. Finland is a magical place and I would recommend it as a travel destination to anyone with Kakslauttenen arctic resort.
The igloos are made of 360 degree glass to give you the full glass igloo experience. There are no showers inside your igloo- you have to walk to a communal bathroom area if you want to shower. There is just a bed, a toilet and a little extra space to store luggage. It’s definitely very basic and small, but an authentic igloo experience nonetheless. The igloos are all heated so they are warm inside
8. Secluded Island Residences:
Venture into the world of private island homes, where exclusivity meets unparalleled natural beauty. These residences, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, offer a luxurious escape from the ordinary.
Elliðaey Island Lodge, situated in the remote Vestmannaejyar Islands off Iceland’s southern coast, has gained international fame as the “World’s Loneliest House.” This isolated white building stands amid a striking landscape of flat green plains and rugged cliffs, capturing the fascination of online enthusiasts worldwide.
Despite various internet rumors, including false claims of it being Icelandic singer Björk’s residence. The true ownership and purpose of this enigmatic dwelling remain shrouded in mystery. The isolation and beauty of Elliðaey Island, coupled with the solitude of its lone house. Create an intriguing narrative that continues to beckon those seeking tales of the extraordinary.
9. Cave Living Wonders:
Uncover the allure of homes carved into natural caves. These dwellings, seamlessly integrated into rocky landscapes, provide a unique and cozy living experience, blending ancient aesthetics with modern comforts.
Kinver Edge and the Rock Houses- High sandstone ridge and hill fort overlooking dramatic red sandstone rock houses.
The National Trust’s Kinver Edge is a remnant of the Mercian forest and contains two Iron Age hillforts. It is also home to the last troglodyte dwellings occupied in England…with a set of complete cave-houses excavated into the local sandstone. The Holy Austin rock houses were inhabited until the 1960s.
10. Castle of Stone:
Casa do Penedo is a particular type of “prehistoric” house located just between Celorico de Basto and Fafe, in the north of Portugal. The house, which is also known as “Castle of Stone” was built between four giant stones originally found in the area. The castle was built in 1972 and integrated perfectly into its natural landscape.
Thus, The two storey house is small in size but it is quite cozy. The top floor is accessible via a wooden staircase and is the sleeping area. There is also a swimming pool outside and an open-air tank which also houses a natural shape of a large stone boulder.
Finally, From cliffside perches to treehouse retreats, the world’s most beautiful extreme homes redefine the boundaries of architecture and celebrate the spirit of daring innovation.