Urlaubsarchitektur was launched in 2007 by Jan Hamer who recognised a growing interest in beautiful homes.

"The appetite for staying in places of architectural interest is growing exponentially," Hamer said. "It's everything from the smell of a holiday house, to the sounds that one hears waking up in a different place, and the feel of the materials."

More than 400 properties are available for rent from the site, mainly in Europe. Hamer hand picks each property, which are by some of the most famous architects in the world, including Peter Zumthor, Piet Hein Eek, and Jon Pawson.

Holidays are not organised through the website, but holiday makers and home owners are put in touch to organise the arrangements themselves.

Hamer has also created books with photographs of the properties on offer, and discusses the concept of holiday architecture.

See also:

Wanted: a 'home away from home' for global entertainer