Dezeen Magazine

In Situ Studio hides black Corbett Residence in a North Carolina forest

US firm In Situ Studio has clad this rural North Carolina cabin in darkened wood and set it far back from the road to protect it from view (+ slideshow).

Corbett Residence by In Situ

The Corbett Residence is located in Bahama, a rural town about 40 miles (64 kilometres) outside of Raleigh, the state's capital. The woodland property is located along a two-lane country road.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

The dwelling is situated at the crest of a gentle hill. The rectilinear home rests on a base made of concrete block, with the upper portion clad in glass and blackened wood.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

"The house is a low, black box that strikes a line across the slope, mimicking the horizon," said In Situ Studio, a Raleigh-based firm founded in 2010.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

The home is oriented to maximise views and natural daylight, while also providing a sense of seclusion.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

Visitors access the residence via a serpentine driveway that winds through the forest.

"The drive is thin and meanders between trees to protect the house from view," the firm said.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

Encompassing 1,560 square feet (145 square metres), the home is divided into three distinct zones. One contains a carport, while the others house a bedroom and the main living area.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

The interior features concrete flooring, wooden cabinetry and modern decor. Operable windows line both sides of the main living area and enable cross-ventilation.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

The bedroom is located on the eastern end of the home. Its large glass wall overlooks a thicket of oak trees.

Corbett Residence by In Situ

Other boxy homes in the US include a slim beach cottage by Ramsey Jones on the shore of Lake Michigan and a cabin in rural Wisconsin by Johnsen Schmaling Architects that features blackened pine cladding.

Photography is by Richard Leo Johnson/Atlantic Archives.

Corbett Residence by In Situ
Site plan – click for larger image
Corbett Residence by In Situ
Floor plan – click for larger image
Corbett Residence by In Situ
Sections – click for larger image