Diagonal Dwelling is a conceptual home designed by NYDE Studio as a boutique sanctuary, envisioned to be in the Highlands of Scotland in UK. NYDE Studio is led by Nicos Yiatros, who worked for about 10 years in London for Foster + Partners and Zaha Hadid Architects before setting up his design-led consultancy offering design concepts that make an impact and add value to the real estate.

The Diagonal Dwelling takes an unconventional shape that defies the norms that prevail in standard prefab cabins. Initially designed to be placed in the Scottish Highlands, it can be customised to comfortably sit in other locations as well. The design offers a sophistication that enhances the guest experience by allowing them to enjoy the view from three different levels while making them feel connected to the surrounding landscape. Additionally, an elevated bed has been designed to give the sensation of floating over the landscape.

The cabin with its unusual design is set at a drastic 55 degrees for solar panel optimisation. This angle also allows for an effortless cascade of home and human function, and more floor space than what the regular perpendicular angles permit. With a minimal ground footprint, the sloping house accommodates more luxury than a standard hotel suite; such as a scenic hot-tub, an elevated terrace, a compact kitchenette, a comfortable bedroom with mini-bar, and a living space with a day bed and a fireplace.

The concept of the Diagonal Dwelling has been designed such that it can be fabricated within 20 weeks and installed on site in less than 10 days once it is shipped to the location. “This luxury cabin aims to be a sustainable, off-the-grid dwelling. It is customisable to fit the client’s personal needs and it is primarily designed to make the guest’s stay unforgettable,” says Yiatros.

This unconventional dwelling by NYDE Studio offers a chance to explore prefabricated housing or off-site construction as they provide opportunities for both environmental and economic performance in the times of growing environmental problems and rapid urbanisation, and as a lucrative alternative to on-site construction.

Project Details

Name: The Diagonal Dwelling
Location: The Highlands, Scotland, UK
Time taken for construction: 20-25 weeks (Projection)
Design firm: NYDE STUDIO
Design team: Nicos Yiatros