A Summer House at the Edge of the Finnish Archipelago
This summer house stands on one of the outermost islands of the Finnish archipelago, just off Vänö—an exposed and beautifully rugged landscape shaped by wind, salt, and sea. With no electricity, water, or sewage systems available on the island, the project required a fully self-sufficient technical solution. Solar panels, a deep drilled well, and a biological mini-treatment plant together create an independent and sustainable living environment far from the mainland.
The house is built in solid CLT timber, chosen not only for its warm architectural character but also for its durability. The exterior is clad in heat-treated wood, a material capable of withstanding the island’s harsh climate of strong winds, fluctuating temperatures, and constant moisture.
Every building on the site is carefully positioned according to the natural conditions. The island is dominated by granite rock formations, and the layout respects these shapes while minimizing impact on the landscape. The orientation creates sheltered outdoor spaces, captures long hours of sunlight, and—most importantly—frames the views over the open sea.
After several visits and a series of sketches, we worked closely with the client to identify the optimal building locations: places with the best light, the most shelter, and the least disturbance to the untouched nature.
The result is a home deeply rooted in its surroundings—a quiet, resilient retreat at the edge of the archipelago.
