With over half of Estonia blanketed in lush forests, it’s no wonder that spending time outdoors is a cherished pastime for its inhabitants. Hiking and camping rank high on the list of favorite activities in this Baltic nation, but there’s no need to rough it in traditional tents. Estonians also excel in crafting upscale cabins that provide a luxurious way to immerse oneself in the tranquility of nature without the fear of rain.

The latest innovation in this realm is the ÖÖD, which translates to “sleep well” in Estonian. This contemporary cabin features a Scandinavian-inspired design with light wood, sleek black steel frames, and minimalist decor, all cloaked in a reflective glass exterior.

This striking mirrored façade acts as a one-way mirror, seamlessly blending the indoors with the surrounding nature, allowing guests to feel enveloped by the landscape. As night falls, the ÖÖD cabins emit a cozy glow resembling lanterns; however, it’s advised to draw the curtains when the lights are on, as the reflection reverses, making the interiors visible from outside.

The innovative glass structures have gained immense popularity in Estonia, where clusters of such cabins enhance the beauty of forests, valleys, lakes, and Finnish Gulf beaches. The creators are now expanding their presence globally, from Lapland to Texas, Africa to Saudi Arabia, driven by a crucial principle: the surroundings must be breathtaking. According to co-founder Andreas Tiik, “It’s about getting people into the most beautiful locations. With the busy nature of life, it’s essential to take a moment to relax and connect with nature without sacrificing comfort. The ÖÖD allows you to enjoy the outdoors while sheltered from all kinds of weather, making it an ideal spot for enjoying a thunderstorm inside a cozy environment.”

The ÖÖDs boast impressive eco-friendly features. They aren’t just visually appealing; they are designed to minimize energy consumption and excel in sustainability criteria, keeping warmth in during cold weather and lasting for years. In warmer climates, the reflective surface significantly reduces heat accumulation by bouncing back 97% of UV rays.

Though there were initial concerns about potential bird collisions with the reflective design, it appears that wildlife is managing well. According to Tiik, “Only a really confused bird would dive into its reflection, and so far, we haven’t seen any accidents.” Former London industrial designer Nick Verebelyi noted that while dragonflies occasionally buzz by curiously, there’s been no evidence of collisions thus far.

Verebelyi and his wife, Emma, recently installed two ÖÖD cabins at their Pound Farm property near Saxmundham in Suffolk, marking one of the rare opportunities to experience these accommodations in England. Located within a Woodland Trust preserve, these cabins offer unforgettable views of local wildlife.

“We see deer, tawny owls, barn owls, kestrels, buzzards, and more from our cabins,” states Verebelyi. “It was about creating an open vista across our meadow, allowing us to enjoy the clouds and stillness from inside. The combination of sophisticated comfort and immersion in nature sets it apart from traditional lodging.”

A stay at Pound Farm also comes with the perk of fresh free-range eggs collected by Emma from her “rescue chickens,” along with homemade bread and jams. There are several scenic trails through nearby woods and a local gastropub, allowing guests opportunities to unwind and stargaze from the deck before sleeping. Visitors should note that this is a place of peace; televisions and noise are absent from the experience.

“It’s a breath of fresh air,” Emma remarks. “Few places offer such serenity, where you can find solitude with your thoughts. It’s the perfect environment for reflection.”