Viggsö by Arrhov Frick Arkitektkontor in Sweden

Project: Viggsö
Architects: Arrhov Frick Arkitektkontor
Location: Sweden
Area: 430 sq ft
Photography: Mikael Olsson

Viggsö by Arrhov Frick Arkitektkontor

Arrhov Frick Arkitektkontor designed the Viggsö project in the middle of a forest on the Swedish island of Viggsö, in the Stockholm archipelago. It was designed with a minimal budget but without any compromises to residential design principles.

The landscape of rocky cliffs, wind-bent pine trees, heather, and a forest floor covered in lichens and wild berries – this rare yet rich environment, together with the minimal budget, defines the principles of this private residence. The house is located on the island of Viggsö in the Stockholm archipelago and serves a family of five. The plan and section are organized into three equal parts: first, the rear entrance volume containing a bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen; above it, a children's and guest attic. Second, an airy two-level dining area with unlimited views in three directions. Third, an open terrace leading to the water and covered by a semi-transparent roof completes the house. Together, all three parts form a total area of approximately 80 square meters.

The design process mainly focused on developing a simple and economical wooden structure. The materiality of the house had to be efficiently transported and assembled on the island, yet capable of supporting relatively large spans. The foundation consists of a series of columns that minimize the house's contact with the ground, simultaneously elevating it among trees and plants. Simple boards connect the dwelling to the surrounding cliffs, following the goal of creating an unobtrusive space within the landscape.

– Arrhov Frick Arkitektkontor