When Czech architecture firm NEW HOW Architects was asked to design a holiday home in the Ore Mountains, it decided to craft a nature-inspired residence that would go against the trend of white-plaster houses in the area. Rather than design a house that stands out in the landscape, the architects opted for a darker facade so that the retreat — dubbed Weekend House Nové Hamry — would look “as if it has been swallowed up by the forest.” In addition to reducing the visual impact on the surroundings, the architects also aimed to minimize the structure’s environmental footprint.