Snorre Stinessen Architecture have been shortlisted for Glasshouse Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020.
Efjord is a residential retreat which focuses on the magnificent, panoramic views of Halvarøy in Northern Norway. Residents are transported to a feeling of total tranquillity and privacy, away from hectic workdays in the city and are connected with the beautifully natural surrounding landscape.
The conceptual layout opens and closes the building in different directions, where the Eastern part of the cabin closes towards neighbouring buildings and opens towards a ridge. The opposite directions are sought at the front end of the cabin, opening to the magnificent views towards the dramatic mountains and the fiord to the West.
The exterior of the cabin consists of two materials; structural glazing and core pinewood. The wood, typical for this region, has been treated with iron sulphate to achieve an even patina. The interiors have been designed using birch veneer and the floors in granite tiles to complement the stone outside. The sauna interiors and ceiling are clad in aspen slats because of the hygroscopic properties of the wood.
The cabin is placed on height with the existing terrain to allow the outdoor spaces to interact seamlessly with the natural landscape. The terrain itself provided a natural orientation and positioning of the building, allowing the different functions to work in tune with the movement of the sun and the balance between privacy and views.
The transition from the entrance to the living room is a beautiful journey in itself; walking through the corridor which brings in the close landscape and terrain, and then down the steps into the living area revealing the incredible view over the majestic mountains and the beautiful fiord. Throughout the design and building process, the surrounding areas and vegetation were protected and preserved, and the site was completed with minimum physical impact to the terrain as to protect the wider environment.
Efjord creates an escape from hectic everyday life, providing space for slow living in close connection with both nature and oneself, whilst having the perfect balance of total privacy and magnificent views.
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