Take a peek inside this compact forest cabin in Seabeck, designed by mw|works

Overlooking Hood Canal, the Little House complements its lush forest surroundings in Seabeck, Washington. With an area of about 1,100 square feet, the sleek cabin — which was designed by Seattle-based mw|works — was one of the winners in the AIA's 2017 Small Project Awards. It was also honored in the 2015 AIA Seattle Awards.

Built to repurpose an existing foundation, the Little House was envisioned as a “compact, modern structure that was simple and efficient”, mw|works describes. Visitors approach the house from the south. Its north and west elevations are more transparent to show off views of the surrounding landscape.

The house's exterior is clad in oxidized black cedar and blackened cement infill panels. In contrast, the interior is warmer and brighter with lightly painted panels and soft pine plywood. Outside, a large patio leads to trails that meander down to the water's edge.

In designing the Little House, mw|works aimed “to capture the essence of the modern cabin, small in size but much larger than its boundaries.”

Photos courtesy of the AIA 2017 Small Project Awards.