Elegantly placed and intertwined with the sloping terrain, the two villas on Flesaasveien have a simple yet striking volume. The two buildings are positioned next to an existing house in a residential neighbourhood to the north of Oslo, Norway. The surrounding area is characterised by its green and open spaces. With a sensitivity to the surrounding context and site conditions, this densification project eases into the neighbourhood without overcrowding the site. A combination of curves and straight lines in the project gives a refreshing but modern addition. The exterior is clad in untreated heartwood of pine, outer corners rounded to provide a dynamic yet soft and fluid appearance.


Fitting two additional residences onto a steeply sloping plot with an existing and retained building required careful management of the site's topography, existing views and privacy. Utilising the topology of the site, the first of the two villas is built into the slope. The height of the building matches that of the terrain, ensuring it does not block the views of the already existing house on the same plot. Large windows to the south and west bring sunshine and light into the building. Bedrooms are located on the ground floor and give direct access to the secluded outdoor spaces. Careful management of visual connections between the two houses provides privacy while maximising views from all interior spaces. The second villa is located on a more level part of the plot to the south-east. The living room and patio on the second floor are oriented towards views of the Oslofjord and the afternoon sun. Windows are oriented to the south and west, the roof sloping to give extra height and spaciousness to the living spaces.


Both houses are built in CLT. The exposed timber surfaces give the interior an organic and warm atmosphere. The untreated heartwood in the facade will grey naturally over time, blending with the surrounding trees and landscape. The garden has been carefully planted to support local and native flora.

