Drawing inspiration from a Mediterranean aesthetic, the architecture delivers a clear and compelling concept. The interior design disrupts uniformity with a variety of textures, ensuring the space remains vibrant and engaging. For a newly build house, the home features a harmonious blend of roughness and softness. Resisting the urge to fill every space with furniture or functions, the transition spaces are appreciated for their own value, not necessarily needing to serve other purpose than to provide a sense of openness. The thoughtful lines of sight facilitate serene transitions from space to space.

The final result is a balanced entity, born from the synergy of architecture, interior design and landscape architecture. The home is built to stand the test of time, evolving with the family. With an emphasis on acoustics and consideration for everyone’s personal space, the home offers a perfect balance of peaceful privacy and togetherness.

Designed in close collaboration between Fyra and the architect Otso Virtanen of ARK Helsinki, Villa Housu is tailored to cater to the needs of an active outdoor family without compromising on design integrity. From the outset the dialogue between architecture and interior architecture has been a driving force of the design. Inside, the atmosphere exudes warmth and relaxation with minimalistic design choices.

Emphasizing both functionality and visuality, every element is thoughtfully intertwined to enhance the overall user experience. Storage areas for sports equipment blend into the cohesive layout, maintaining a sense of harmony throughout the rest of the space. Every nook of the premises is thoughtfully utilized to facilitate a seamless transition from daytime activities to cozy evenings in the living room.

Finnish spruce dominates the entirety of the premises, with raw wood covering all surfaces except the bathrooms, where functionality necessitates harder materials. The extensive use of spruce not only emphasizes its essential benefits but also ensures a seamless integration with the surrounding environment. Custom-designed wooden furniture further enhances the villa’s unique character.

The building itself harmonizes with the arctic landscape, integrating the characteristics of traditional Finnish architecture into a contemporary setting. Despite being located within a new neighbourhood, strategically placed windows and openings offer glimpses of the natural scenery, fostering a sense of connection to the outdoors. The project’s ethos of soft minimalism coupled with functionality remains consistent throughout.