Kebony Wood, a natural link between the Dirhami Nature Resort and its landscape

Designed by architects Mari Hunt and Helmi Langsepp of MARIHUNT architects, this complex was designed to blend seamlessly into its surroundings – a goal made possible by the Kebony wood chosen to clad the buildings and exterior features.

For Mari Hunt and Helmi Langsepp, architects of the project: “The architectural language of the Dirhami Nature Resort reflects the subtle transformations of its natural environment. Arranged in a staggered pattern, the buildings follow the rhythm of the forest. The design, both minimalist and contemporary, is rooted in traditional Nordic aesthetics. The use of wood, particularly Kebony cladding, accentuates this organic integration into the landscape.”

Just a 15-minute walk from Dirhami Port, Dirhami Nature Resort is nestled in an ever-changing landscape. Its four houses, totaling 275 m², stretch across hilly terrain lined with pine trees. Interconnected, they form a unique architectural ensemble that interacts with its surroundings, thanks in particular to their Kebony wood cladding.

Designed to offer total immersion in nature, this retreat combines comfort and functionality while meeting visitors' needs for solitude or sharing. The houses' expansive terraces offer contemplative spaces overlooking the forest, while the communal terrace, connecting the outdoor kitchen and sauna, forms the social heart of the estate. A Kebony wood staircase leads to the top of the sauna, revealing a panorama of a profusion of blueberries.

An ecological material serving a sustainable vision

The entire complex is built on wooden structures, with facades and terraces clad in Kebony Character wood. This material, renowned for its exceptional durability and minimal maintenance, met the expectations of the architects and owners, who were keen to maintain a respectful connection to the forest landscape.

“The client wanted a façade that would age naturally, requiring no maintenance. Kebony emerged as the ideal solution, offering a longevity of at least 30 years while elegantly patinating over time,” explain the architects.

Developed in Norway, Kebony technology is a patented, environmentally friendly process that modifies sustainably sourced softwoods by heating the wood with an organically derived product. By polymerizing the wood's cell wall, the softwoods permanently adopt the attributes of tropical hardwoods, while minimizing the impact on the environment. The original brown hue naturally weathers over time, developing an elegant gray patina that allows the complex to blend into the nuances of the forest.

The Dirhami Nature Resort project was nominated in two categories for the 2024 Best Timber Architecture Award. It notably won the Raitwood Award, recognizing the best application of timber. Its integration into the landscape, the choice of a sustainable material, and the natural aesthetic evolution of its façade were key criteria for the jury.

The products were supplied by Kebony's trusted partner: Vivarec OÜ.