SNAVEN HOUSE STORY
The project is set in the picturesque rural landscape of southern Sweden, known locally as "Snaven," which also became the project's name. Though the meaning of the word remains unknown, the qualities of the surroundings are evident: two old buildings in the traditional "skånelänga" style (long, small houses with gable-roof – typical for southern Sweden), an open forest sloping down to an agricultural field cut by a river, and the surrounding pine forest and meadows characterize the site.
POSITION
The new house is set behind the existing buildings at the end of the street leading to the site. Partially concealed by trees, Snaven orients itself along the edge of the slope. This allows the long sides of the house to face either towards southwest for optimal evening/afternoon sunlight or northeast with views overlooking the river and agricultural field.
FEATURES
The studio/workplace volume is over-height, and its roof is shaped in harmony with the two existing buildings on the site. In contrast, the rest of the house maintains a low-key profile with a nearly invisible flat roof blending into the surrounding trees. Snaven aims to seamlessly integrate with its environment, avoiding a conspicuous presence and becoming an integral part of the landscape.
The flat roof is accessible from the studio space, and strategically placed skylights illuminate the rooms. A prominent skylight atop the studio roof, facing north, allows for neutral light to fill the space.
Snaven house offers modern living in close relation to the surrounding landscape and its history.
Reacting to the surrounding trees the house meanders through them which opens up for different views from inside to the surrounding landscape.
The basic shape of the house relates to the traditional “skånelänga” with its long and small volume but is angled according to the trees. The length is defined by the program’s requirements.
PROGRAM
The interior is divided into distinct zones. At the center lies a pivotal core, serving as the heart of Snaven. This space encompasses the entrance, a living room with a fireplace, and the kitchen, fostering an open and transparent atmosphere.To the left of the entrance is a dedicated studio or working space. A corridor extends from the core through the passive zone to the eastern section of Snaven. The passive zone inherits bedrooms, toilets, and guest rooms, while the east part offers space for a sauna and a gym.
Along the entire northeastern facade, a terrace offers panoramic views of the river valley and connects seamlessly to an outdoor pool.
SUMMARY
Bedrooms (4)
Kitchen + Dining + Lounge
Media Room / Library
Sauna
Gym / Hobby room
Storage + Technical Room
Total: 280 M2