Forest House by Studio Onu: A Harmonious Blend of Nature, Tradition, and Modern Living in Poland

Nestled in the serene landscape of Nowa Wieś Lęborska, Poland, Forest House (Dom Las) by Studio Onu stands as a remarkable testament to the harmony between architecture, nature, and local craftsmanship. Completed in 2022, this exquisite 100-square-meter residential project reflects over 25 years of thoughtful land stewardship by the client, who transformed a once-disused field into a thriving, biodiverse landscape through careful silviculture practices—selective weeding, thinning of young pine and birch saplings, and nurturing native flora.

Site and Context: A Living Landscape in Kashubia

The site is deeply connected to the Kashubia region’s vernacular heritage, embodying a design approach rooted in tradition yet interpreted through a contemporary lens. The architecture responds directly to the surrounding forested landscape and the client’s commitment to environmental care. The two complementary buildings of Forest House are crafted to facilitate both the ongoing care of the land and provide occasional, welcoming shelter for family gatherings.

Materiality and Craftsmanship: Celebrating Local Traditions

The project’s success lies in the sensitive use of locally sourced materials and the skilled work of Kashubian artisans. The house features a robust pinewood structure and furniture, echoing the native pine trees of the land, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior environments. Bricks sourced from a nearby brickyard add an earthy texture and tone that respect the regional soil and natural palette.

A highlight of the design is the traditional hearth, placed at the literal heart of the home. The central fireplace anchors daily life, framed by panoramic views that connect the interior living spaces with the expansive parkland beyond. This layout honors the symbolic and practical role of the hearth in Polish homes.

Architectural Details: Modern Expressions of Traditional Motifs

The exterior facade reveals a contemporary reinterpretation of Kashubian ornamentation, inspired by traditional embroidery, music, and folk art. Collaboration with local brickworkers and metalworkers has resulted in finely crafted fretwork shutters and patterned brick surfaces, filtering natural light into the home while providing weather protection. This subtle fusion of vernacular design and modern architecture creates a dynamic interplay of texture, shadow, and materiality.

Interior Design: Family Heirlooms and Nature-Inspired Elegance

Inside, Studio Onu designed bespoke dining and coffee tables inspired by Kashubia’s turned-wood furniture traditions, marrying craftsmanship with modern aesthetics. These pieces dialog with precious family heirlooms, thoughtfully incorporated to celebrate heritage and personal history. Complementing the natural materials, glazed ceramic tiles in soft green hues reference the surrounding pine forests, further blurring the boundary between inside and out.

A striking tapestry featuring wild poppies symbolizes the house’s profound connection to the landscape—echoing the native flowers that flourish in the grasslands outside, this artistic centerpiece encapsulates the essence of Forest House: a living, breathing celebration of place, craft, and nature.

All Photographs are works of Martyna Rudnicka