Island HousesIsland HousesIsland Houses
The site is located on an island on the west coast of Sweden, occupying a unique position perched on a steep crag near the highest point in the landscape. It offers expansive, open views over the sea and the horizon.
The client requested two houses—one for the parents and one for their adult children—both featuring extra rooms for visiting friends.
The challenge posed by the steep site was resolved through two terraced levels built from local stone, echoing the foundation walls of many of the older houses on these islands, which were originally populated by fishermen and captains. The resulting platforms are integrated into the rocky landscape, set against the protruding bedrock. Above the solid stone walls and concrete terraces, a light structural timber framework defines the contour of the houses.
An inner ring of large glass sliding doors separates the interior from the terrace, while a continuous loggia encircles all four façades.
Stairs providing access to the building platforms are integrated into the solid base. Aside from a few steps and stone walls, the natural environment has been left untouched. At night, the new buildings stand out like beacons, their lights shining from the top of the hill.
