Country houses are becoming more popular as the urban stress rises around the globe - living in the countryside means giving a piece of peace back and connecting back to nature. The rural retreats offer a refuge in nature from the hustle and bustle of daily urban life. The natural settings offer challenges and opportunities at the same time. Whether high mountains, canyons, or cliffy coasts, this volume showcases 60 of the best of contemporary countryhouses designs worldwide, featuring the work of well-known architects and innovative designers who pay their respect to nature - through sustainable construction methods and an esthetic style that appreciates and highlights the beauty and uniqueness of each landscape.