Hidden among the lush vegetation of Sierra de Aralar in Spain, BABELStudio has reimagined a compact cabin. Completed in 2023, Aralar Cottage retains its original size and form, featuring a gabled roof and square floor plan.

Situated in Spain’s Gipuzkoa region, the project respects the existing volume with a new envelope inspired by nearby greenery. A timber frame and ventilated battens clad the facade, complemented by a corrugated sheet metal roof. As part of the sustainable systems, the exterior is unified under an all-black finish, contrasting the surrounding forest.

The atmosphere is anchored through a treatment on-site, baptizing it under a modernist lean in black, showing restraint in design. This minimalist approach also reflects the inhabitants’ lifestyle as a young creative couple from Bilbao, interested in manual work and nature. They aimed for a space that would serve overnight stays and inspire a productive retreat. The new iteration is in line with these imaginings as a means to create more communal programming.
Inside, the cottage divides into two generous halves: a sleeping area and a carpentry workshop. Each space of equal size echoes a value of untethered living indoors and outdoors. The bedroom’s two large windows connect the interior to the exterior. Imposing as the collective nighttime space, the indoor space is characterized by the adjoining sitting area and fireplace combination?producing a leisurely perception in dialogue with nat...