Hinterhaus 41
STRATFORD, ONTARIO
A 1,220 sq. ft. Nordic-inspired retreat designed as a quiet architectural companion to the 1907 main residence. Its name, Hinterhaus, means “house behind the house”; a familiar feature in European cities where people live in quiet proximity, connected by space and community.
This project is a modern take on shared and cooperative living; two families brought together on a single property while maintaining the independence of privately contained spaces. Read, why we built it.
Steep rooflines, wood and metal cladding, expansive glazing, light-filled interiors with a soft, natural palette, rooted in Nordic craft, clarity, and calm.
Design Team: Brad and Shawn Hernden of Elevïn Design Studio
Elevïn Design Studio offers full-service project development from planning and zoning to interior design and construction. We’d love to help bring your vision to life.
Gallery
Nordic Cabin ADU
Hinterhaus 41
Year
2025
Hinterhaus is not just a cabin - it’s a sanctuary that supports human connection, whether through family meals, quiet reading moments, or enjoying nature from within.
our services
full-service Interior design
Building or renovating a space involves more decisions than most expect. From mid-century modern to coastal and contemporary, Elevïn Design Studio custom tailors designs to reflect each client's unique style and vision.
You'll work with skilled designers and expert project managers who oversee everything from space planning to final installation.
adu design + development
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are standalone living spaces on the same property as a main residence, often called in-law suites, garden suites, or carriage houses.
Elevïn Design Studio guides you through zoning laws, evaluates buildable areas, and works with architects, builders, and planning officials to turn your ADU vision into reality.
Project: Hinterhaus 41, ADU Concept
Style: Nordic minimalism
Square Feet: 1,220
Storeys: 3
The plans
why we built hinterhaus 41
Hinterhaus 41 was created as a modern expression of cooperative living, a space designed to share land, values, and a quiet connection with the original 1907 residence at 41 Front Street, Stratford.
Rather than introduce a structure that felt separate or detached in spirit, we designed Hinterhaus 41 as an architectural companion, one that complements the character of the main house while offering privacy, independence and purpose. It shares a garden, a driveway, and a deeper sense of belonging. Its name, Hinterhaus, is inspired by the German term for a “house behind the house” - a familiar feature in European cities where people lived in quiet proximity, connected by space and community.
We built Hinterhaus to explore what’s possible when design supports both individuality and togetherness. Families and friends can live side by side, each with their own space, yet still share the land and a relationship to it - and to each other.
A Model for Shared Living, Equity & Connection
There are practical reasons for building this way. For many, it’s a way to unlock equity, support multigenerational living, or generate rental income. But beyond that, we believe in designing with care - for others as much as for ourselves.
Hinterhaus represents our commitment to building modern, soulful spaces that foster affordability, sustainability, and connection.
Creating Belonging: The Story Behind Hinterhaus 41’s Concept + Design
Rooted in Scandinavian design principles and infused with Canadiana, Hinterhaus blends simple geometry, natural materials, and functional beauty. Vertical wood cladding and standing seam metal roofing echo traditional Canadian craftsmanship, while expansive Euro-style windows connect the interior with surrounding gardens and landscape. Inside, soft light, whitewashed walls, pale wood, and a thoughtful layout create a calming, restorative atmosphere that honours both Nordic minimalism and Canadian heritage.
Echoing the Nordic concept of hygge, the cabin is designed to support human connection, whether through family meals, quiet reading moments, or enjoying nature from within. It’s more than a structure - it’s a lifestyle of warmth, simplicity, and place.
Elevïn Design Studio, led by Canadian twin brothers Shawn and Brad Hernden, provides full-service project development from planning and zoning to design and construction.
We’re passionate about helping you bring your vision to life.
Learn more