Private residence · Scandinavia · Architectural and interior design

The location

Lake House stands in a Scandinavian forest, among tall trees and close to the water. The residents enjoy ultimate luxury, comfort, silence and an optimal connection with the natural environment in this enchanting place nestled in nature.

The design

Minimalist frames around the high windows and the unique construction of the new house together create that connection with the surroundings.

The wooden slats and black concrete walls form a husk around the building, just like bark on a tree. Through this layering of walls, structure, form and material — first placing the walls separately from each other and later connecting them to unify the whole — a building has been designed that forms a cohesive whole both on the inside and outside. It is an eye-catching unity that leads to a unique home situated in nature.

The straight lines and flat roofs form a contrast with the organic forms of the trees, while the verticality is in harmony with them and emphasises the height of the home.

Inside, the open character and the large void in the living room — with a bar and stunning views above it — emphasise the sense of freedom and space, and there are different views of nature from every living space. The tasteful library in particular makes it seem as if you are in the middle of a forest.

The elegant custom work, the beautiful sightlines, the mood-enhancing lighting, the glass walkway to the master bedroom and the swimming pool that runs from indoors to outdoors complete this unique, high-end home in natural surroundings.

Colours and materials

Subtle shades of green and grey, combined with wood and concrete among other things, so that the natural surroundings are reflected in the interior. Outside, the shadow effect between the slats enriches the experience of the space and changes with the light.

A house built to disappear between the trunks.

In my own words

Building among trees means you are always the newcomer. The slats and the layered walls are an attempt at good manners: to let the house belong there rather than announce itself. On a grey afternoon you almost lose it between the trunks, and that is the compliment I was after.

— Mariska Jagt