TreeBOX: A Modern Timber Haven Elevated Among the Oaks
Studio Officina82 unveils TreeBOX, an ingeniously designed timber retreat nestled among the oak trees of Selucente in Garessio, Italy. Supported by four wooden posts, this compact refuge ascends gracefully toward the forest canopy, offering an immersive experience without impacting the trees. A bridge provides easy access from the hillside, while expansive windows and a terrace reveal breathtaking views of the Ligurian-Piedmontese Alps.
For more on architectural transformations, check out Boulder Home by Studio B, which mirrors the natural beauty of its mountainous surroundings.
Inspired by Traditional Hay Barns
The cabin draws inspiration from the barchi, traditional hay barns in the Ligurian Alps. Known for their adjustable roofs, these barns informed Officina82’s design, shaping TreeBOX as an ever-rising roof. Covered in timber shingles, the structure presents a seamless wooden exterior, mirroring the natural surroundings. This modern design showcases the refuge amidst the timeless beauty of the forest.
Images by Giulia Sarno reveal the textured timber shingles wrapping the entire structure, providing continuity and elegance.
A Bedroom in the Treetops
TreeBOX’s interior is organized to maximize vertical space. The sleeping area, located at the front of the cabin, places guests amidst views of tree trunks and mountain ridges through its large glazed surfaces. Subtle plywood panels and exposed structural timber maintain a minimalist aesthetic, perfectly complementing nature’s grandeur, making it a perfect elevated sanctuary.
Above the bed, a suspended net offers a mezzanine-like rest area. A skylight bathes the space in natural light, providing a window to the sky.
Timber Haven Elevated in the Selucente Project: Reviving Alpine Heritage
TreeBOX is part of Selucente, a project revitalizing Alpisella, an alpine hamlet at 1,000 meters altitude. Officina82 architects Fabio Revetria and Lara Sappa, alongside partners Tiziana and Roberto, aim to preserve the area’s historical buildings while introducing modern structures like StarsBOX and GlamBOX. Their approach respects traditional architecture while promoting contemporary usage of this elevated dwelling.
Explore another infusion of modern design with Rebuild the House, which considers the extent of renovations needed to merge tradition with contemporary living.
Design Details and Intentions
The cabin’s full-height glazing integrates the interior with the forest, while a rope net adds an extra layer of relaxation space. Exposed timber elements emphasize simplicity in design. TreeBOX exemplifies a model for reactivating marginal mountain areas through thoughtful architecture. This hillside retreat creates a harmonious balance with its surroundings.
Project Information
Name: TreeBOX – Casa Sull’albero
Location: Selucente, Garessio, Cuneo, Italy
Architects: Fabio Revetria and Lara Sappa from Studio Officina82 | @officina82
Images: Giulia Sarno
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is TreeBOX inspired by?
TreeBOX draws inspiration from the barchi, traditional hay barns in the Ligurian Alps. These barns, known for their adjustable roofs, informed Officina82’s design, shaping TreeBOX as an ever-rising roof.
What is the primary material used in TreeBOX?
TreeBOX is covered in timber shingles, presenting a seamless wooden exterior that mirrors the natural surroundings.
Who are the architects behind the TreeBOX project?
The architects behind the TreeBOX project are Fabio Revetria and Lara Sappa from Studio Officina82.