Pursuing peace of mind and inner tranquillity has long transcended the Eastern world, finding its way into Western homes. In our increasingly hectic lives, particularly in urban environments, people seek to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature through personalised, welcoming experiences tailored to their needs.
Enter Space of Mind, a modular, prefabricated cabin designed by Finnish studio Studio Puisto in collaboration with furniture brand Made By Choice. Created in response to the coronavirus pandemic, the cabin serves as a dedicated space to reflect, recharge and unwind – a sanctuary where one can truly find peace of mind.
A remote refuge
What makes Space of Mind truly exciting is that it isn’t just a remote retreat; it can also be set up close to home – such as in the garden – serving as an office, gym or guest room. At the heart of its design is adaptability, enabling each user to tailor the space to their specific needs and lifestyle.
The versatility of Space of Mind comes from its modular system, allowing the cabin to be effortlessly reconfigured for various purposes. Whether used as a relaxation area, a focused workspace or a wellness sanctuary, the cabin adjusts seamlessly to suit the changing demands of the user’s routine.
The lightweight timber structure spans less than 10 m² and is designed for factory assembly, minimising its impact on the land and making transport and installation possible at virtually any location, even remote sites.
To achieve this, the cabin was strategically designed to be light enough to be transported by crane or helicopter, with robust foundations capable of withstanding almost any environment, as the studio explains. This not only enhances the cabin's versatility but also provides the freedom to select the ideal setting to relax and recharge.
Integrated into the landscape and the people
The design and versatility of Space of Mind allow it to seamlessly blend into almost any landscape. The exterior cladding can be chosen from larch wood, black tar paper, or standing-seam galvanised steel, depending on the user’s climatic conditions and aesthetic preferences. Additionally, the removable foundations can be helical piers or lightweight concrete, enabling the cabin to adapt to various terrains without disturbing the natural surroundings.
The first cabin in the Space of Mind series was installed on an outcrop in Finland’s Porvoo archipelago, using larch wood that naturally ages to a grey hue, allowing it to blend harmoniously with the rocky landscape.
The cabin’s angular design was created to introduce an element of surprise, with a protected entrance beneath the cantilevered roof. Inside, a modular system based on wooden pegs enables easy and functional reconfiguration of the furnishings.
It’s a "kind of puzzle" that adapts to the user’s routine. "The interior can transform from a space for relaxation to one for concentration or even for well-being," explains the studio.
Wood is the predominant material inside, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere that connects the user with nature. For those seeking an even cosier environment, wool carpeting is also available.
The cabins can be expanded with various outdoor modules, including a separate toilet, an outdoor kitchen or storage units by the door, making the cabin a self-sufficient and highly functional space.