This Northern Thailand Retreat Celebrates Nature & Local Design

In Chiang Mai, Thailand, the off-grid Wood and Mountain Cabin by Sher Maker Studio celebrates vernacular architecture and handcrafted techniques through its use of wood and integration within the natural landscape. Inspired by the houses of Northern Thailand and the Japanese shou sugi ban wood charring technique, the cabin boasts an impressive ombré facade and an interior of shingled wooden panels for an all-around unique look and cozy vibe.

Based on the simple forms of longstanding surrounding homes, the cabin presents a closed facade nearly devoid of windows and largely clad in paneling on all sides, save for the rear of the structure. A boardwalk welcomes visitors to the front door, from which they enter into the open-plan living and dining area.

At about 1,080 square feet, the floor plan is narrow, but the space makes up for it with its height and with a window-covered back wall that extends the space from the indoors to outside.

Wood and Mountain's interior is minimal, consisting of a central couch, a modest kitchen that runs the length of northeastern end, and a tiled bathroom on the opposite. Upstairs, a mezzanine holds the bedroom, a space that's made particularly peaceful by its views onto the garden area below. The back wall looks out over the surrounding land, and a series of glass doors open up onto a spacious deck that features an outdoor tub.

Designers sourced the panels for the wood cladding locally before sorting, sanding, and then burning them in the method of shou sugi ban, which bestows upon them natural protection against the elements. Imperfections from the process remain to reveal the authenticity of the handiwork and to pay homage to the client-a furniture maker and materials distributor.

The small building is almost intimidating in its appearance thanks to its sculptural facade and venue-like lighting, but just beyond the entry, its simple form is welcoming and homey. It makes a unique addition to any cabin inspo archive, but the owner also plans to rent the space out in the future (and we'll be keeping an eye out when).