Delta Shelter by Olson Kundig Architects

With more than 50 percent of the world's population now living in cities, it's inevitable that we are going to see more and more demand for 'retreats' and weekend homes out in the wild. This particular example lies in Mazama, WA, USA, and offers great views to surrounding trees and mountains. Although it appears small in comparison to its surroundings, it's a 300 square meter living space spread over three floors, the kitching and living room being on top. The perhaps most interesting feature of the house is the way it can be closed up when the owner isn't there using a manual crank, seen on the pictures above.

Barcelona Flat by mirallestagliabue

Although the majority of posts involving architecture on Life's Replay focus on contemporary work, it's important to keep a perspective of tastes and styles and, most importantly, to be open for new inspiration.

Benedetta Tagliabue, a Milan-born and Venice-educated architect, has renovated an 18th-century flat in Barcelona for herself and her family. Tagliabue, who was married to Spanish Catalan architect Enric Miralles until his passing in 2000, has made sure not to the destory the features of the timeworn original building, keeping many of the fantastic textures that are to be found on the walls and ceiling. Interestingly, rather than attempting to either completely renovate the antique features, or present them like monuments or artwork, they integrate seamlessly into the rest of the living space, just like the various design objects or custom made furniture. Although one might mistakenly say that some spaces express a feeling of untidiness, there's an overwhelming harmony that makes sure that all objects belong in a certain place, as all the books and the art were meticulously arranged by her late husband. Ironically, the flat itself did not follow a strict plan, and was directed by existing qualities, such as the naturally generous quantities of light.

All in all it's a noteworthy contrast to other schools of architecture the rely heavily on clear forms, shapes and systems. Be sure to read this more extensive article on dwell, as well as visiting Tagliabue's studio's website. 

Kelowna House

This house in Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada, by architect David Tyrell, boasts not only impressive views, but some really special features that make this residence worth a more than a second glance. Take the infinity edge pool for starters, designed to take you closer to the lake whilst still enabling you to relax in the comfort of your own home. The height of the building is surprising from many angles as well, being build into the side of the hill and allows the staircase on the interior to fully expand across the floors. One could perhaps criticize the almost overly spacious interior, but that would be nitpicking now, wouldn't it.