5 special destinations for a recharging natural vacation
in biophilic design
A natural vacation is the perfect way to escape from the city for a while and restore that deep connection with nature that is so precious for our health and wellbeing.
Also, they are a great biophilic design inspiration, with their concentration of natural textures, shapes and materials, their seamlessly merged indoor & outdoor spaces, the gorgeous outdoor views…
So let’s go on a journey around the globe to visit 5 of the best destinations for a holiday immersed in nature.
1. treehouses – dolomites (italy)
These small retreats propose a form of slow tourism in the middle of the Italian Dolomites. The project is still a concept right now, but these treehouses would be added to an existing hotel, offering the option of a full immersion in nature.
The whole interior structure is made of wood, that is left exposed to create a naturally warm atmosphere. And the front walls are fully glazed, calling for some quiet time spent contemplating nature.
2. origin - château de raray (france)
This treehouse has been built around a huge oak tree, that pokes through the entrance patio and shades the little top terrace. A suspended walkway is the way to access the home, while closely touching and feeling the natural surroundings.
Indoors, the space is organized around big windows, two of which end up being right in front of the seating area and the bed. Natural wood is the main indoor material, which contrasts really well with the black window frames, making the view the real focal point of the design.
3. treehouse m – anhui (china)
Located in the middle of a natural reserve, this retreat is basically a wildlife observatory with all comforts.
The front is glazed, leaving a fully open view. And outdoors, a wood structure creates a covered patio that is even equipped with a bathtub.
4. vipp shelter – lake immeln (sweden)
This one-room hotel is a prefabricated retreat immersed in the Swedish forest. The black interiors are minimal with a hint of Nordic coziness, but the main focus is on the surrounding nature.
The front of the home is a huge sliding glass door that can be opened almost fully to welcome the outdoor in. The living area looks to the lake and a glazed ceiling in the bedroom allows guests to sleep under the stars while being indoors (something I’d definitely like to try one day!)
5. treehouse - juluchuca (mexico)
This cylinder-shaped treehouse has been defined as an “extension of the surrounding landscape”, and it really is! Made of all-natural materials (bamboo above all), it merges with the trees seamlessly. And being open on both sides, it leaves guests the choice to look backward to the trees or forward to the sea.
Right now, a stay at one of these retreats is definitely not a cheap option. But it’s promising to see that more projects of this kind are coming up. The hope is that this kind of slow natural vacation will soon become a widespread type of holiday. An escape from the city and the everyday digital world, into the peace and beauty of nature.
