Spectacular Handbuilt Home Blossoms Out of Coastal Rocks in Spanish Canary Islands

The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canary_Islands">Spanish Canary Islands </a>hosts some of the world's most beautiful beaches and important natural attractions. The archipelago also has a long history as the main stopover for Spanish galleons on their way to America, so it's no wonder that this dynamic landscape has attracted a number of hardy adventure seekers looking to take up residence. We immediately fell in love with these no-frill rock homes showcased over at <a href="http://www.dwell.com/articles/on-the-rocks.html">Dwell</a>, which were built by hand directly into the coastal cliffs and caves of the Canaries. Far from your typical high-tech, green homes, these houses utilize traditional design methods that place <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/diy">DIY sustainability</a> at their core. Take a peek into one of these spectacular structures, as photographer<a href="http://www.gunnarknechtel.com/"> Gunnar Knechtel </a>takes us on a tour of a home on the island of Tenerife.

We've reported on homes built into cliffs and caves before, but it's not often that we see such a simple take that forgoes the use of heavy-duty machinery for traditional <a href="http://inhabitat.com/giant-timber-tower-rises-out-of-the-czech-countryside/">hand-building </a>techniques.

While most of coastal Spain is dotted with modern condos and brick and mortar construction, these humble cottages use craggy promontories and volcanic caves for their structural base. Despite their austere nature they still offer spectacular views over the sparkling ocean, which is literally just a few feet away.

The home featured here, photographed by <a href="http://www.gunnarknechtel.com/"> Knechtel</a>, is a wood construction that is used as a retreat by its owners during the hot summer months.

The area is primarily made up of solid rock, but this material helps regulate the home's interior temperature - particularly in the summer when it keeps things cool for residents. The full integration of the natural landscape also makes for stunning, natural interior decor - in some instances walls are white washed to open the space, and in others the rock is left untreated.

Special touches, such as <a href="http://www.inhabitat.com/diy">DIY</a> surfboard benches and paintings, and conveniences such as a television and microwave make the city-to-seaside life transition seamless.

Apart from the volcanic rock walls and ceilings, the spaces are as familiar as what's found in the city.

While there isn't much sand to be found in the area, it's a perfect place for sunbathing, strolling, hiking and community gatherings on the cliffs.