Library House: Harmonizing Work, Creativity, and Nature

Library House, envisioned by Fria Folket and Hanna Michelson, stands as a testament to a harmonious blend of functionality, creativity, and environmental consciousness. Crafted to accommodate the diverse needs of a ceramicist and a lawyer, this residence seamlessly integrates workspaces, living areas, and extensive book collections within a serene forest setting.

Architectural Concept

The architectural narrative of Library House revolves around the concept of a central library, akin to a book gallery, enveloping a tranquil courtyard. Positioned on the edge of a pine forest by Lake Voxsjön, the house pays homage to the family’s original home, Villa Skoghem, a historic forester’s residence. While the north, east, and west facades maintain a sense of privacy, the south facade opens up to picturesque views of the lake.

Spatial Organization

Library House comprises four gable-roof buildings, each meticulously designed to cater to specific functions: Cooking and gardening, Arts and crafts, Law, science, and music, and areas for rest and recovery. These buildings orbit around the central library, which serves as the heart of the residence, fostering connectivity and coherence throughout the space.

Circulation and Privacy

The house is designed to embrace the natural movement of sunlight, with the entrance aligned to the east, symbolizing the beginning of the day, and the restful areas situated towards the north. A clockwise circulation pattern encourages fluid movement from social spaces to private retreats, with strategically placed windows offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape.

Integration with Nature

Library House blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, with four doors providing seamless access to the courtyard from every corner of the house. The transparent glass framing of the courtyard amplifies the perception of the library, transforming the outdoor space into an inviting reading area immersed in nature.

Sustainable Design

In a commitment to sustainability, Library House embraces eco-friendly materials and construction practices. Recycled glass, untreated heart pine, and flax fibers are utilized in the building’s construction, minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient heating systems further reduce the house’s carbon footprint.

Rhythmic Harmony

A sense of rhythm permeates Library House, articulated through the grid-like construction and load-bearing glass partitions. Like musical notes on a sheet, these elements create a harmonious composition, reflecting the balanced coexistence of work, creativity, and nature within the residence.

Library House stands as a testament to thoughtful design, where architectural ingenuity, environmental consciousness, and human-centric spaces converge to create a sanctuary that celebrates the beauty of simplicity and harmony.