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It’s hard for a home to stand out among Norway’s scenic wildlands, but one Oslo-based architecture firm has found success where many others have failed. The Mountaintop Cottage by Arkitektvaerelset is a thought-provoking cabin built within the constraints of the country’s strict housing guidelines — and amidst such a challenging opponent, the dwelling has emerged more beautiful than ever.

The cottage is located some 1,125-meters above sea level, adorning a secluded mountaintop that faces staunch weather and violent winds, causing designs and materials to be confined within a set of unrelenting regulations. While Arkitektvaerelset had a daunting project set before them, the talented architects created the serene structure with a beautiful wood facade, adorned by a 22-27 degree slanted ore pine roof. A mesmerizing collection of angular lines and proportionate panels mark the exterior of the home’s porch area, while panoramic divider windows dress the space in warm, natural light. The dwelling can accommodate up to 12 people, with an additional “attic” area that can house up to eight more — all thanks to a master bedroom, bathroom, and sauna that transition seamlessly between a space for rest and a guest sleeping area.

winter2019 Mountaintop Cottage By Arkitektvaerelset blog Design architecture camponogaraboys studiocamponogara

In the wild and mountainous regions of western Mongolia lives a small group of Kazakh nomads who keep a millenary tradition alive. They are hunters who, helped by eagles, catch various types of prey, including foxes, wolves and hares. Here the hunt is not a squalid "sport" for leisure, but a source of livelihood.

By now there are only a few, around 300, and almost all are men, known as "burkitshi", except for a dozen women, including Zamanbol, whom the photographer Leo Thomas met in the Altai region here to immortalize this guardian people of ancient traditions, on the borders of civilization.

Nomads, they live mainly on sheep-farming, only a few remain and do not need comfort. Just the essentials. Even when winter temperatures reach 40 degrees below zero.

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Mike Campau Digital Imagery creates powerful imagery for large brands and high profile agencies.
Mike Campau has over 20 years of experience creating powerful imagery for large brands and their high profile agencies. His specialty is hybrid imagery, combining photography and cgi in a flawless and captivating style. Whether pulling together a team of experts from his large network of artists or flying solo, he knows how to breakdown the process and over deliver every time.