Hotel in the Trees: The Mirrorcube at Treehotel — Where Architecture Merges with Nature
Deep in the boreal forests of northern Sweden lies an architectural marvel that seamlessly blends innovation with nature — The Mirrorcube at Treehotel. This extraordinary hotel room challenges the conventions of hospitality, offering guests a one-of-a-kind stay surrounded by tranquillity, silence, and minimalist elegance. As of February 2025, The Mirrorcube continues to attract travellers in search of sustainable design and genuine immersion in the natural world.
Design That Disappears into the Forest
Hidden among the pine trees near the village of Harads, The Mirrorcube appears almost invisible. Its exterior is completely covered with reflective glass, creating a camouflage effect that mirrors the surrounding forest. The illusion is so complete that the cube seems to disappear into the landscape, disturbing neither flora nor fauna.
The architects behind this unique creation, Tham & Videgård, approached the project with a deep respect for the environment. They constructed the cube around a single tree, using lightweight aluminium and sustainable materials. Bird-friendly infrared film is integrated into the mirror panels to prevent bird strikes, a subtle yet critical feature for ecological harmony.
Measuring 4x4x4 metres, The Mirrorcube accommodates two guests and includes a double bed, bathroom, lounge, and rooftop terrace. Accessed via a suspended bridge, it offers panoramic views from within, thanks to six windows discreetly positioned behind the mirrored walls.
Interior Simplicity and Nordic Aesthetics
While the exterior mesmerises with optical illusion, the interior charms with warmth and simplicity. The walls are lined with untreated plywood, a nod to traditional Scandinavian design principles. Natural light filters in gently, creating a peaceful ambience that encourages relaxation and reflection.
The furniture is custom-designed to maximise space and comfort. There is no television or distractions from the outside world. Instead, guests are invited to unwind, observe wildlife, and savour the silence of the forest. Heating is provided by underfloor systems, ensuring comfort even during snowy winters.
Eco-friendly features include a composting toilet and an advanced air-circulation system. Every element of The Mirrorcube was designed to minimise energy consumption and environmental impact without sacrificing guest comfort.
A Stay Unlike Any Other
Unlike conventional hotels, Treehotel offers a boutique experience rooted in ecological awareness and modern design. Guests who stay in The Mirrorcube are not just booking a room; they’re embracing a philosophy of coexistence with nature. This tree room is not isolated from reality but offers an alternative perspective on it.
Located 60 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, the Treehotel site is ideal for viewing the Northern Lights in winter or experiencing the midnight sun in summer. The natural phenomena enhance the surreal atmosphere of The Mirrorcube, making each visit seasonally unique.
Treehotel also provides opportunities for year-round activities, including dog sledding, ice fishing, forest hiking, and mindfulness retreats. The experience is curated for those seeking tranquillity, inspiration, and a deeper connection with the Earth’s rhythms.
Why Treehotel Stands Out
Treehotel is not merely an architectural experiment; it is a living example of responsible tourism. By elevating rooms off the ground and using sustainable building techniques, it demonstrates how humans can inhabit nature without exploiting it.
Each tree room at Treehotel, including The Mirrorcube, is designed by different Scandinavian architects, ensuring artistic diversity and innovation. However, the underlying philosophy remains consistent: to honour the forest and preserve its serenity.
In 2025, The Mirrorcube continues to be a benchmark for nature-integrated design. Its popularity among architects, environmentalists, and travellers is a testament to the power of thoughtful architecture that respects its context.
Modern Comfort Meets Wilderness
Despite its minimalist approach, The Mirrorcube offers comfort on par with premium hospitality. Guests enjoy Wi-Fi, high-quality linens, and meals sourced from local ingredients, served in a nearby lodge. There is also a sauna and spa area, allowing visitors to balance rustic simplicity with modern indulgence.
What sets the experience apart is not luxury in the conventional sense, but the privilege of peace — something increasingly rare in modern life. The silence, broken only by birdsong or the rustle of trees, is a reminder of life’s slower rhythms.
The Treehotel staff maintain a strong focus on guest wellbeing. Personalised service, local knowledge, and respect for privacy are integral to the stay. This commitment to care without intrusion defines the essence of Scandinavian hospitality.
Looking Ahead: Sustainability as Standard
The Mirrorcube, along with Treehotel’s other rooms, symbolises the future of environmentally conscious travel. As climate awareness grows, destinations like this set a precedent for how design can support conservation rather than consume it.
Treehotel partners with local communities and environmental organisations to ensure the sustainability of their operations. Reforestation, wildlife monitoring, and renewable energy sources are integral to the resort’s practices.
For travellers in 2025 and beyond, The Mirrorcube remains more than a night’s stay — it is a lesson in humility, reminding us that true innovation lies in preserving the beauty of the natural world, not reshaping it.
