Charming timber-clad bungalows blend into Portugal’s bucolic landscape

Nothing says rustic country living better than charming timber-clad <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/cabin/" target="_blank">cabins</a>. Portuguese firm <a href="http://www.m-arquitectos.net" target="_blank">M-Arquitectos</a> perfectly captures that bucolic vibe in this trio of wooden bungalows built in the countryside of Sete Cidades, Portugal. The small structures were designed to expand the footprint of an existing 1950s summerhouse and were built using <a href="http://inhabitat.com/tag/local-construction/" target="_blank">local construction techniques</a> and materials.

To complement the predominantly rural surroundings, the wooden volumes were crafted with a simple silhouette inspired by the traditional architecture of the Azores.

The design encompassed four main individual dwellings: the existing and renovated house, and the three new housing units.

Each of the added units was elevated off the ground to mitigate the site’s steep slope.

Each of the added units was elevated off the ground to mitigate the site’s steep slope.

The three light-filled bungalows share the same footprint and are all equipped with a kitchenette, bedroom, bathroom, and small attic space for contemplation purposes.

The architects also created a smaller storage facility on site designed in the same timber-clad and angular aesthetic.