Framed Landscape
A new typehouse proposal to return residents the water-rich environment of Dalsland, SE.
Concept: This project proposes a new living condition set within the landscape of Dalsland. Exploding the very notion of dwelling, the social and the introvert, the cottage is formed of two vistas which open up and frame the serene landscape beyond, bringing the resident closer the wild nature in which the house is set. Outside, the cottage sits on a plinth, raising it above the wilderness, allowing the nature to flow through.
Formal development and accommodation quality: The proposal explores the existing formal expression and living conditions of the Dalsland cottages and redefines these characteristics into a modern house suitable for the unique setting and contemporary rural life. Making use of contemporary architectural techtonics and materials the proposal divides a single story house into its two main functions: the social (living and kitchens area) and the introvert (bedrooms and bathrooms).
The social space is left open; a long barn with a vista out towards the water, framing the beautiful setting which the house lies in. In contrast, the introvert area is divided up into separate rooms ideal for family living. These have their own unique vistas over the surrounding landscape. The wild landscape is encouraged to grow up to the base of the house so its resi-dents are situated within nature, whilst their garden becomes the landscape adjacent.
Impact on the public access to the beach: The proposal challenges existing modes of living within a pro-tected area and unique setting. The standard living condition is that of a house with a demarcated territory around it: the garden. This model however divides the landscape up in such a way that it has a great impact on the landscape and public access. The project proposed a new way of living which responds to the unique setting by defragmenting elements of the house and garden and placing them along a path towards the water.
Territories are marked along this path, giving the residents a possibility for constructing decking, gardens or garden sheds within the defined regions. This method helps to situate the house and its associ-ated garden space within the natural setting and has a minimal impact on public access to the beach and the ‘right to roam’.
