SOMMARHUS E.

Lina Eidenberg Adamo

• Architects

In the coastal forests south of Visby, on the Swedish island of Gotland, lies Sommarhus E. Crafted from local wood, limestone, concrete, and glass, the home reflects a Nordic mid-century style. The result is a sensory-rich retreat that harmonises flexibility and comfort within a natural environment.

photo_credit Lina Eidenberg Adamo — Lina Eidenberg Adamo

It lies low, harmonising with the island's landscape rather than aiming to impress with height and size. The narrow slats of slow-grown Gotland pine on the facades further contribute to the dialogue with the surrounding nature. "I want the architecture to enhance the character of the place," says Johan Sundberg. "We capture the views and the feeling of the place and amplify the sensory experience with materials, light, and shadows. It's like different scenes in a film, not all bright and cheerful; there is also darkness, autumn, and spring."

Designed as a lasting family home, Sommarhus E prioritises flexibility and comfort for various uses. The fundamental question is: How should life be lived in this place? "It's about creating generality and flexibility, both for solitude and gatherings," says Johan, comparing it to how a train works. "Everything has its place. There can be a party in one compartment, while people sleep in another. Similarly, the house is open to various kinds of social interactions."

The main building consists of various volumes, complemented by a guest house and garage nearby, arranged like a small village in the forest with paths connecting the dwellings. Emphasis was placed on creating a home with multiple good sides, with several interior and exterior rooms integrated with open corners and shifts. The volumes of the home form various garden rooms within the inner spaces. "We work with enclosure," says Johan, who rarely designs glass walls on all sides. That creates an exposed living space, a feeling of being seen from the outside.

The kitchen serves as the heart of the house- an airy gathering place with significant height due to a roof that curiously protrudes above other structures. "It brings a lovely, delicate general light into the kitchen," says Johan. A few steps lead down to the living room, which opens to the garden through a sliding glass door. The pool area, framed by local limestone, offers multiple cosy spots to relax and enjoy the surroundings. Throughout the day, the compass directions guide life- providing sun or shade, with evenings offering a view of the sunset on the west side.

Sommarhus E reflects an approach focused on human needs and atmospheric responses rather than an artificial order. It represents a place for nature-close living over many summers- a clear embodiment of emotional design and practical living.