Balancing Barn, Modern residential structure in Thorington, United Kingdom.
The Balancing Barn is a modern residential building that hovers halfway over a natural slope, wrapped entirely in reflective metal sheeting. The design cleverly uses the sloping terrain, with the structure housing four bedrooms, private bathrooms, and a central kitchen and dining space that accommodates up to eight guests.
The house was designed in 2010 by Dutch architecture firm MVRDV as part of an arts initiative founded by entrepreneur Alain de Botton. This collaboration explored experimental residential design as a creative medium.
The interior weaves together design elements that nod to celebrated regional painters, showing how contemporary architecture can honor local artistic traditions. These references appear subtly throughout the rooms, inviting guests to explore the area's creative heritage while staying.
The building sits on a slope, so access involves a gentle incline, but visitors should be aware of its elevated position. The location is quite remote, so it helps to sort out transportation and parking options before arriving.
A large glass floor panel in the living area lets visitors look straight down to the ground beneath the suspended portion of the house. This transparent surface creates a striking sense of floating and makes the building's architectural boldness immediately felt.
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