Tucked away in a tranquil forest setting in Denmark, the House Between the Trees is a minimalist masterpiece designed by Peter Kjær. This T-shaped wooden structure blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its design is a testament to simplicity, yet it conceals a wealth of unique features that invite exploration.
The house showcases a classic roof silhouette, cleverly designed to blend into the landscape while offering a cozy retreat. Constructed with breathable wooden materials, it boasts a foundation and terrain deck that significantly reduce concrete usage. This thoughtful approach not only respects the environment but also enhances the overall aesthetic of the dwelling.
Strategically positioned among the trees, the layout includes a bedroom wing that offers privacy from the road, a family room oriented to the west, and a kitchen that serves as the heart of the home, connecting the two wings. From both the kitchen and family room, residents can step out onto two terraces, perfectly positioned to bask in the sun’s rays throughout the day.
The kitchen also features a staircase leading to a loft, where morning light floods in from the east, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This clever design element not only maximizes natural light but also adds a sense of spaciousness to the home, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.
In terms of sustainability, the house is anchored directly to the ground with minimal concrete use. Its foundation consists of screw piles and a concrete edge casting formed with wooden molds, resulting in a significantly reduced concrete footprint compared to traditional foundations. The terrain deck is ingeniously crafted as a floating floor, utilizing floor chipboards and Douglas fir boards laid directly on pressure-resistant insulation, further emphasizing the commitment to eco-friendly building practices.
Frames, tap bands, and various internal details are crafted from Douglas-fir, while the walls are adorned with a delicate east veneer that creates a remarkably sturdy surface, developing a beautiful patina over time. Every wooden interior surface is treated with soap, enhancing its natural beauty and durability.
To ensure breathability, both the roof and facades incorporate vapor retarders and wind barriers made from wood fiber, complemented by blown-in wood fiber insulation. The facade is elegantly finished with linseed-oiled spruce, while the roof features spruce boards topped with roofing felt for added protection.