The starting point for this design was wood and the aim was to build a genuine wooden house. The load-bearing structure of the house and the partitions are all in cross-laminated timber. Inside, the frame is left visible, bringing wood naturally into the internal finishes, as well. The load-bearing structure becomes a beautiful and personal interior finish. Wood plays a major role in the external cladding, too. The natural grey shade of the translucent finish brings out the character of the wood, while the varying widths of the cladding boards are a reminder of the forest.
The form of the house is simple and the detailing discreet. The form is dictated partly by the constraints of the small urban site, partly by the potential offered by the method of building. Sculptural nooks and crannies are natural for the chosen construction method. This is a small urban house, well suited to small size and compact form. The graphic grey colour pulls the building mass together, while the lighter shade of the details suggests genuine wood.
Internally, spaces flow into each other and circulation is guided by light. Entry is straight into the kitchen/living room – the heart of the matter. The light coloured wooden surfaces bring a soft villa-like atmosphere. The terrace and garden become part of the internal space due to the large window surfaces. Washing and utility spaces are separated functionally to form a concentrated unit. The beautifully detailed wooden staircase at the core of the house continues the space naturally to the upper floor. The idea of flowing space continues upstairs with the upper floor is divided into bedrooms and workspace as in an attic.
The verdant garden faces the sun. Wall-like outbuildings supplement the residential architecture and delineate an important courtyard which is dense and provides shelter. In the sheltering atmosphere of the trees and the surrounding buildings, the courtyard is a peaceful and intimate space.