Stylish minimalism at the Arctic Circle

In the sink area of the compact kitchen, the high arched spout of the
Concetto kitchen mixer from Grohe ensures the greatest possible flexibility of
use.
Photo: Grohe
In the mountains of Kandalaksha, a small Russian town on the Kola
Peninsula, a lone DublDom modular house defies the Arctic temperatures. Surrounded
by white hills, it provides hikers, skiers and nature lovers with unique
accommodation in the Arctic Circle.
In order to erect this miniature house, the DublDom modules had to be
delivered by helicopter: the remote terrain on Mount Volosyanaya is too
impassable for trucks. Thanks to the efficient planning of
Moscow-based BIO Architects – the preparations took an entire year – only two
flights were required and the house was installed at its final destination
after just 45 minutes. Resting on six stilts, it seems to float above
the ground and radiates a natural lightness that is echoed in the kitchen by
Grohe’s Concetto mixer.
Minimalist design with highly convenient benefits

Measuring approx. 26 square metres, the modern
interior is optimally equipped to meet people’s needs in the mountains.
Photo: Grohe
The modular structure blends in unobtrusively with the landscape. Inside
and out, it is designed to cope with the challenging thermal requirements posed
by the Russian wilderness. Measuring approx. 26 square metres, the modern
interior is optimally equipped to meet people’s needs in the mountains. Its small
footprint provides visitors with everything they need for an unforgettable stay
in the Arctic Circle.
In the sink area of the compact kitchen, the high arched spout of the
Concetto kitchen mixer from Grohe ensures the greatest possible flexibility of
use. At the same time, the variant with a convenient pull-down spray head
increases the range of action when cooking and washing up. Besides
bunk beds, the interior of the house is also equipped with a gas hob with two
burners, a large dining table and a bathroom with a shower and composting
toilet. Also available: 3G internet access.
Not just a simple mountain cabin

Travellers who venture into the solitude of the Russian peninsula can
look forward to numerous winter activities like snowmobiling, hiking and skiing
tours.
Photo: Grohe
Within a year, Moscow-based BIO Architects planned an impressive
combination of standard DublDom modules, high-tech materials and coatings that
protect the minimalist house from high wind loads and enable it to withstand
any weather. The insulation consists of polyurethane foam and a well-conceived, self-sufficient
energy concept puts the finishing touches to this very special lodging: during
the day, a solar array and generator provide the cabin with electricity. At night or
when temperatures are particularly low, a wood-burning stove ensures the occupants
stay comfortably warm and cosy.
The south-facing panoramic window commands an unforgettable view of the
tundra, the Kandalaksha Gulf in the White Sea and – when the conditions are
right – the Northern Lights. So as not to distract from this spectacular
sight, the architects deliberately chose a subdued colour scheme for the entire
house.
Travellers who venture into the solitude of the Russian peninsula can
look forward to numerous winter activities like snowmobiling, hiking and skiing
tours. In summer, visitors to Kandalaksha can enjoy the area’s numerous bike
trails and waterways, as well as sailing.