House Between the Trees – The Sustainable Summer House

Nestled among towering trees, the House Between the Trees by Peter Kjær Arkitekter is a minimalist T-shaped summer house that blends simplicity with intricate design details. This architectural gem features a classic pitched roof and is constructed with sustainability at its core, using breathable timber materials and an innovative foundation system that drastically reduces the use of concrete.

Thoughtful Design in Harmony with Nature

The house is cleverly designed to complement its natural surroundings. The layout is divided into distinct sections: a bedroom wing that offers privacy from the road, a west-facing living area, and a kitchen located at the intersection of the two wings.

From the kitchen and living room, you can step out onto two inviting terraces. These terraces are strategically placed to capture sunlight throughout the day – from the soft glow of the morning sun to the golden hues of sunset. The kitchen also features a staircase leading to a cozy loft space, which is illuminated by natural morning light streaming in from the east.

A Low-Impact Foundation for Sustainability

The construction of the house focuses heavily on reducing its carbon footprint, especially in the foundation and flooring – components that typically account for up to 50% of the climate impact in single-story wooden houses over a 50-year lifespan.

While building on stilts is often a sustainable solution, local regulations in summerhouse areas often limit the height of structures, making this approach challenging. Instead, this house features an innovative foundation system:

– Foundation: Screw piles combined with a minimal concrete edge beam, crafted with wooden formwork. This drastically reduces the amount of concrete used compared to traditional foundations.
– Flooring: A floating floor system made without concrete. It uses pressure-resistant insulation as the base, overlaid with plywood and Douglas fir floorboards for durability and warmth.

Beautiful Interiors with Timeless Materials

Inside, the house is a celebration of natural materials and craftsmanship. Every detail is thoughtfully executed to create a warm, inviting atmosphere:

– Walls and Finishes: All walls are clad in thin, robust veneer panels from the east, providing a surface that ages gracefully over time.
– Wooden Features: The interior detailing, including frames and beams, is crafted from Douglas fir, with all wood surfaces treated with soap to enhance their natural beauty.
– Durable and Elegant Design: The combination of wood and veneer results in a cohesive and timeless aesthetic that reflects the surrounding forest’s serenity.

A Breathable, Energy-Efficient Envelope

The house is designed with a breathable structure to ensure long-term comfort and sustainability. Both the roof and facades are built with natural, vapor-permeable materials:

– Insulation: Wood fiber boards and blow-in wood fiber insulation ensure excellent thermal performance while keeping the building breathable.
– Exterior Finishes: The facade is clad in linseed oil-painted spruce, and the roof features spruce boards covered with durable roofing felt.

Why “House Between the Trees” Stands Out

House Between the Trees is a perfect example of how modern architecture can merge sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics. By prioritizing eco-friendly materials, reducing concrete usage, and embracing the natural landscape, this summer house offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable design.

Whether you’re drawn to its innovative construction methods or its serene design, this house is a testament to thoughtful architecture that respects both its occupants and the environment.

Photography by James Silverman