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Lead architects: Peter Eland
Client: Private
Location: Denmark
Completed: Summer, 2020
Photography: Jonas Bjerre-Poulsen
About Studio
Founded in 2008, Norm Architects is a Copenhagen-based practice working with design to enrich the human experience. As multidisciplinary architects and designers, we consider our work as a facilitation of well-being, as a distillation of aesthetics that resonate with the unique person and place, and as a system that supports universal human needs.
Each project – be it architecture, interiors, or products – exemplifies minimalism infused with a larger aim to re-sensualize the built environment through haptic designs that embrace mind and body. As we work, our goal is always to find the essence of the design no matter its scale or location to create buildings, spaces, and objects that connect with the innate human desire for belonging, autonomy, and identity.
Our expertise lies in recognizing the moment when there is nothing more to add or take away; when function meets beauty and the work feels as good as it looks.
Built on a raw concrete foundation with green, growing vines and black timber cladding, the exterior architecture of the cabin effortlessly complements the surrounding nature. Handmade, ceramic brick stairs lead down from the main house and onto the terrace area, continuing into the interior and becoming a beautiful, rustic and distinctive characteristic of the space exclusive to the seaside abode.
With a built-in timber kitchen and wooden panels containing hidden storage, clutter is minimized and space is optimized. A selection of furniture with notes of soft-minimalism has been chosen in high-quality materials with elegant form, creating a sense of subtle luxury within the cabin — a beautiful contrast to the natural brick floors and outdoor surroundings.
The dining table pendant and table lamp are part of the collection recently designed for The Archipelago House, produced by Karimoku and Kojima Shouten. Small design details are inspired by Japanese fishing harbors, adding a maritime aesthetic to the interior.
Organic shapes, tactile materials, and artisanal ceramics add a softness to the space, complementing the solid timber planks for a Skandijapanese aesthetic, and an overall sense of beauty and purpose. With stunning views directly out to sea, a sense of serenity is overwhelmingly present, a perfect spot within the cabin to slow down, unwind and be in the moment.
‘The Koku Table’ is inspired by our travels to Shikoku, Japan, and the work of American/Japanese woodworker, architect and designer George Nakashima. A play on balance — between the light and heavy, the transparent and monolithic. The table is all about creating direction in the base whilst maintaining symmetry
on top, striving for a calm, sculptural expression without losing the obvious functionalities. By using a combination of solid wood and metal pipes, we have been able to play with the dimensions and proportions of individual elements — allowing them to be very thin and elegant, without losing strength.
A refined abundance of warm textures and hues is used throughout, creating a deep sense of coziness and comfort. There are two bedrooms within the cabin, built against the natural slope of the land to create a cozy and intimate space — as if crawling into the berth of a boat. Both alcoves are defined by a large skylight, allowing transparency between nature and architecture through inviting both organic light and greenery inside.
A neutral colour palette consisting of muted tones creates a warm and welcoming space for outside elements to become of focus from within. A combination of soft furnishings and elegant design enhances the subtle interior both tactilely and acoustically. The Hashira Floor Lamp, designed by Norm Architects and inspired by Japanese Washi Paper makers provides beautiful light due to the fine, natural materials complimenting the space.
“When you look out through the open space and out to sea, it’s like a painting. A beautiful, open, and picturesque view”
All that we surround ourselves with, can have a direct impact on our mood and behavior. Working with natural materials in both architecture and design is therefore a simplistic way in which we can enrich our surroundings and ultimately enhance our quality of life.
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