Fogo Island Studios | Newfoundland (CA) | By Emma Harrison

Hidden away twelve miles off the northeast coast of Newfoundland, Canada is Fogo Island, an area of breathtaking, uncultivated and windswept beauty. Home to a population of just 2,500 and with a dwindling cod fishing industry, Canadian charity The Shorefast Foundation set about reviving the island by creating Fogo Island Arts, a residency-based contemporary art venue established in 2008.

Four years later, the organisation commissioned native and Norway-based architect Todd Saunders to design six remote studios scattered across the island with the aim of housing a rotating programme of artists and writers in residence. The six studios (Long Studio, pictured) vary in size (18 sqm-111sqm) and were completed over a period of two years. Each site is autonomous and uses sustainable methods of heat retention and water management to ensure minimal environmental impact. With outstanding views from all angles, the studios are strategically placed and project the occupant towards the Atlantic Ocean via an obliquely slanted, full-height window that frames the horizon or shoreline.

In 2013, Saunders completed work on the Fogo Island Inn, a five star luxury retreat with 29 guest rooms. To enquire about residency programmes or book a stay, visit the Fogo Island Arts website.