An architecture studio renowned for its biophilic design approach has created a Danish summer house that engages all the senses.
Heatherhill, a coastal reserve on the Danish island of Zealand, is characterised by rolling grass- covered hills, rocky beaches and quaint retired fishing villages. Here, atop a hill overlooking the Kattegat Sea, Copenhagen-based studio Norm Architects have harnessed both Nordic architectural traditions and the raw beauty of the landscape to craft an enduring seaside retreat. “In every facet, this home is a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the splendour of nature,” architect Sofie Bak says. “It is a home that not only respects the environment but also invites it in, creating spaces that are truly one with the world outside.”
Heatherhill Beach House explores the notion of a traditional Danish summer house – an approach reflected in its pared- back architectural forms and the choice of wood as the primary material for the home’s interiors and exteriors. Designed to both blend in and stand out, its barn-like structure contrasts sharply with the undulating landscape, while its cedar cladding and sedum roof harmonises with the colour of the surrounding environment.
The design language within the home is intended to enhance the sensation of arriving at a tranquil retreat. “The architecture is designed to draw the eye and hold your attention – leading you on a journey of discovery through the entire property,” Sofie says. “Long views extend through the house, welcoming you with a glimpse of the breathtaking scenery beyond.”
The sunken living room frames a view of the minimalist kitchen, anchored by a travertine island bench paired with Artek Atelier bar stools.
The adjacent dining space features the Ton 30 armchair and Vitra Akari 75A pendant light.
Douglas Fir walls and ceilings create a warm, enveloping sensation in the sunken living room, while the choice of traditional brick floors pays homage to Danish Modernist design.
The emphasis on grounding, nature-derived materials is evident in every detail of the interiors, from the warm embrace of the Douglas-Fir-clad walls to the tactile experience of walking along the modernist-inspired brick floors. “Nature becomes an ever-present companion, eliminating the boundaries between indoors and outdoors,” architect Peter Eland says. “The materials are not merely selections; they are declarations of longevity.”
The prolific use of wood holds personal significance for the architects beyond its promise of blending with the environment. “We find that the traces of life in wood are a humble reminder of our own impermanence,” Sofie says. “It’s a material that leaves you feeling grounded and connected to the world outside.”
The sunken living room features a harmonious blend of nature-inspired elements and mid-century- modern influences. Selections include the E15 Backenzahn St034 stool, Fritz Hansen PK22 chair, Valerie Objects N4 hanging lamp, Living Divani Extrasoft sofa and Fredericia JG folding stool.
The home’s neutral palette directs attention to the landscape, showcased through carefully framed views. The study nook features the Carl Hansen & Son Wishbone CH24 chair and Vitra Akari 1A table lamp.
Simplicity is at the heart of Norm Architects’ practice and emerges as a celebrated hallmark of this project. “Achieving simple yet sensuous spaces requires a commitment to craftsmanship and an ambition to work with high-quality materials,” Peter says. “It’s more challenging to be selective than it is to be excessive, and it takes a great deal of skill to craft spaces that work well while hiding everything except the essentials.”
By treating nature as the precedent for this project, Norm Architects have been able to fashion a home that enhances quality of life for its occupants. “The essence of designing for well-being lies not in grandiose expressions or ostentatious features but in cultivating a harmonious environment,” Sofie says. “To achieve this, we’ve harnessed the power of natural materials to construct spaces that not only look and feel good but also stand the test of time.”
This feature originally appeared in est magazine issue 52: The Nature of Design.
The bedroom spaces exude calm, with Douglas Fir floors and neutral plastered walls and ceilings. Pictured in the space is the Wastberg w102 Chipperfield wall lamp.
The home’s emphasis on personal wellness and rejuvenation manifests in the various bathing spaces, including the timber-lined outdoor shower and spa-like bathtub, both inviting residents to unwind while connecting with their surroundings.
“The essence of designing for well-being lies not in grandiose expressions or ostentatious features but in cultivating a harmonious environment...”
– Norm Architects architect Sofie Bak
