This boulder-like structure holds a secret rest spot inside. The naturalist design resembles the surrounding mountainside, and many hikers would not see it. But those who know the Swiss Alps, and perhaps a little about architecture, might be able to distinguish its concrete form and find the side door.

The curious design was created by the Swiss studio Bureau A. Named Antione after a character in Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz’s novel Derborence, the project takes inspiration from his story of surviving a landslide while trapped between rocks.

Bureau A’s interpretation, although precariously positioned where rocks could fall, provides wandering mountaineers with a far more comfortable hideaway. The wood-lined cabin is lit by a small window and skylight, heated by a wood stove, and furnished with a pull-out dining table, seating, and cots. The design offers just basic comforts, but, for travelers, the shelter will likely be a rare and welcome treat.

Photography is by Dylan Perrenoud

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Holly

Holly is a poet from Kentucky. She grew up first in a Sears house, then on a farm. She studied English and Gender Studies at Mount Holyoke College and moved to Manhattan for love. As an occasional jewelry-maker and museum patron, Holly favors wearable and functional design but is eager to see work that challenges her aesthetics. Read more and connect by visiting her blog, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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