• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Project Name: Efjord

Location: Norway

Date Completed: September 2017

Interior Designer: Snorre Stinessen Architecture

Located on an island called Halvarøy in Northern Norway, Efjord is a residential retreat designed with a focus on creating a close connection to the beautifully, natural surrounding landscape, nature and the local climate.

The site is positioned on a natural ledge in the terrain, overlooking the fiord to the West, two of Norway´s most challenging climbing peaks towards the South and protected by a ridge in the terrain towards the East. The client desired a retreat that focused on the panoramic views of the site, but also transported them to a feeling of isolation and total privacy, away from hectic workdays in the city.

The conceptual layout opens and closes the building in different directions, where the Eastern part of the cabin closes towards neighbouring buildings and opens towards a ridge. The opposite directions are sought at the front end of the cabin, opening to the magnificent views towards the dramatic mountains and the fiord to the West.

The exterior of the cabin consists of two materials; structural glazing and core pinewood. The wood, typical for this region, has been treated with iron sulphate to achieve an even patina. The interiors have been designed using birch veneer and the floors in granite tiles to complement the stone outside. The sauna interiors and ceiling are clad in aspen slats because of the hygroscopic properties of the wood.

The transition from the entrance to the living room is a beautiful journey in itself; walking through the corridor which brings in the close landscape and terrain, and then down the steps into the living area revealing the incredible view over the majestic mountains and the beautiful fiord. Efjord creates an escape from hectic everyday life, providing space for slow living in close connection with both nature and oneself.

Efjord connects to, and respects nature, whilst at the same time adhering to functional requirements of a modern family life.