Design Concept
Library House, envisioned by Fria Folket, epitomizes a harmonious blend of functionality and creativity, catering to the diverse needs of its occupants—a ceramicist and a lawyer. With a shared love for literature and individual work rhythms, the couple sought a dwelling that would offer tranquility for solitary pursuits while fostering a sense of togetherness.
Contextual Integration
Nestled on the fringes of a pine forest near Lake Voxsjön in Stockholm, Library House pays homage to its surroundings while embracing modernity. Situated adjacent to the family’s historic home, Villa Skoghem, the design seamlessly melds traditional elements with contemporary sensibilities, offering glimpses of the picturesque landscape while maintaining privacy.
Spatial Composition
Structured around a central library, the house comprises four distinct pavilions, each catering to specific functions. From cooking and gardening to arts and crafts, law, science, music, and spaces for rest and reflection, every aspect of daily life finds its designated domain within the interconnected volumes, anchored by the library—a hub of intellectual and creative energy.
Circulation and Privacy
The architectural layout mirrors the sun’s trajectory, guiding inhabitants through a clockwise journey from communal spaces to private retreats. As residents traverse the house, strategically positioned windows frame scenic vistas, encouraging a seamless flow of movement and interaction with the natural surroundings.
Courtyard Connectivity
Four doors, discreetly nestled within the book gallery, provide seamless access to a central courtyard, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior. This transitional space, enveloped by glass walls and flanked by towering bookcases, extends the library’s influence into the open air, offering an immersive reading experience amidst nature.
Sustainable Practices
Library House champions sustainable living, incorporating recycled materials and energy-efficient design principles. From flax fiber insulation to locally sourced timber cladding and rainwater harvesting systems, every aspect of the architecture reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and resource conservation.
Articulating Rhythm
The architectural rhythm is echoed in the structural grid, manifested through load-bearing glass partitions that delineate the bookshelves. Like musical barlines on a score, these elements infuse the space with a sense of harmony and order, inviting residents to orchestrate their daily lives with precision and grace.
Library House stands as a testament to the power of design to foster harmony between human habitation and the natural world, offering a sanctuary where creativity flourishes and connections are nurtured amidst the tranquil beauty of Stockholm’s landscape.
