Writer’s House in Altai Foot of Mount Belukha, Altai Republic Year: 2021
Context The client acquired a remote plot at the foot of Mount Belukha to construct an autonomous retreat dedicated to writing a book. The house was conceived as a periodically used residence with the possibility of full conservation for extended periods. The site is characterized by exceptional natural value, the absence of centralized utilities, and complex access logistics. The project was envisioned not merely as a dwelling, but as an instrument of concentration — an architecture of silence, landscape, and introspection.
Design Approach
The primary requirement of the brief was to embed the building into the natural environment as delicately as possible while maximizing the spatial openness of the interior toward the surrounding landscape. Key design principles included:
Strong visual and spatial connection between interior and nature
Environmental responsibility and use of natural materials
Fully autonomous engineering systems
Modular logistics, including the possibility of helicopter delivery
Energy efficiency and long-term conservation capability
The architectural composition is based on two longitudinal CLT volumes with a central technical core. Panoramic glazing along the perimeter creates a sense of openness, dissolving the interior into the surrounding landscape.
Spatial OrganizationFunctional Program
One bedroom
Central technical core
Living room combined with kitchen
Separate writer’s study
The layout is organized around the central technical block, which concentrates engineering systems and defines the spatial structure of the house. All primary living spaces are oriented toward panoramic views and the natural landscape.
Structural System
Primary structure: CLT panels
Supplementary structure: steel elements for reinforcement
Structural scheme: two load-bearing volumes with a central core
The building was designed for prefabrication and transportation in large modules, enabling installation in remote and difficult-to-access terrain, including helicopter delivery.
Façades and Building Envelope
Exterior wall thickness: 320 mm
CLT structural panel
Thermal insulation layer
Ventilated façade system
Continuous panoramic glazing maximizes views and establishes a seamless visual relationship with the surrounding environment. Façade materials were selected in response to the region’s harsh climate and with careful consideration of environmental impact.
Engineering Systems and Autonomy The house operates fully autonomously and includes systems for:
Heating
Electricity supply
Water supply
A nearby natural stream provides water intake. Inside the house, a multi-stage purification system treats the water to potable standards. All systems were designed to support seasonal use and allow for full building conservation during extended periods of vacancy.