During the autumn of 2023 and the winter of 2024, we held many discussions with architects and construction companies to find the right form and expression for the houses on Björkesö. It was a period filled with sketches, ideas, and conversations about how best to reflect the character of the place – with the forest, the lake, and the light always as central points of reference.
On January 22, Hem 1 presented the sketches that would eventually become the winning proposal. Their design captured exactly what we were looking for: a calm, contemporary architectural language that nevertheless feels natural and at home in its surroundings. The images shown here illustrate the architectural drawings from several perspectives and provide a clear sense of how the buildings relate to the landscape.
The winning concept consists of two identical building volumes. One serves as the main living house, approximately 100 square meters in size, while the other is intended for a workshop and complementary functions. Both buildings are visually connected through proportions and material choices and open toward the lake through generous verandas with views over the water.
After the presentation, a period of adjustments and refinements followed. Floor plans were adapted, details discussed, and the overall design gradually fine-tuned. It was a careful process in which functionality, aesthetics, and long-term considerations were given the time they deserved.
On April 22, 2024, everything finally fell into place. After months of dialogue and development, we signed the contract with Hem 1. With that, the project moved decisively from vision and sketch to reality, laying the foundation for the next phase of Björkesö’s development.