Balancing Barn by MVRDV, Suffolk, UK

Balancing Barn, designed by the Dutch practice MVRDV, stands on the edge of a tranquil nature reserve a few miles inland from the Suffolk coast, near the historic towns of Walberswick and Aldeburgh. Clad in elegant reflective steel tiles, the house dramatically cantilevers over the landscape, providing views from its huge panoramic windows over woods, ponds and meadows.

The Balancing Barn aims to make people re-evaluate the countryside as well as make contemporary architecture accessible. In addition to this, it is both a restful and exciting holiday home, boldly designed to provoke a gut response to architecture and nature over a short stay.

Awards: Brit Insurance Award, London, UK / Red Dot Award 2011, Essen, Germany

Source: MVRDV