In the serene landscape of southern Sweden’s Österlen region, Villa Österlen by Note Design Studio exemplifies a nuanced approach to architecture, where tradition and innovation intertwine seamlessly. This private residence, nestled on a sloping site near a local village church, intertwines space, material, and atmosphere into a cohesive whole. Moving beyond conventional architectural practices, the studio’s distinctive method integrates its expertise in product and interior design, crafting a home rooted in its environment rather than pre-defined forms.
A Design Process Steeped in Heritage and Modernity
Note Design Studio’s journey into architecture emerged organically from their celebrated work in products and interiors. By embracing spatial qualities from the inside out, co-founder Johannes Karlström explains that their approach remains explorative and distinct from conventional architecture. Villa Österlen reflects this philosophy, drawing inspiration from the traditional skånelänga, while adapting it to a contemporary context. This blend of past conventions and new ideas is apparent in every aspect of the house’s design.
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Material Choices Reflecting Local Heritage
The materials for Villa Österlen are selected for their transformative qualities over time. A harmonious blend of plastered stone and a Rheinzink roof ensures that the residence ages gracefully. Architect Jesper Mellgren highlights how these elements, influenced by the nearby church, will develop a rich patina, embracing nature’s touch as part of the design vision. A balance of old-world techniques and current functionality plays a pivotal role in these material choices.

Interior Harmony with Environmental Consciousness
Inside, the regional aesthetic continues with locally-sourced materials such as Swedish pine, Norwegian slate, and Bohuslän granite. The custom pine finish, achieved through a unique mixture of oil-based pigments and lye, offers a soft hue that evolves with the day’s light. This approach mirrors the granite and timber pairing seen in other innovative projects like Norm Architects’ Dan Bakstudio. The interior design truly encapsulates the idea of merging classic materials with contemporary design approaches.

Crafting Spaces for Connection and Privacy
Structured around the concept of gathering, the floor plan is thoughtfully designed to facilitate family connections while providing privacy. Open communal areas flow seamlessly into personal spaces, using framed views and subtle transitions instead of stark separations. Principles of both traditional and contemporary architecture inform the spatial layout, providing a blend of openness and intimacy.

Custom Creations Complement the Setting
Villa Österlen features bespoke pieces, including a dining table and a pendant lamp, that harmonize with the room’s natural materials. These designs contribute to a cohesive material language, extending from the floor to the timber ceiling. Once again, the fusion of classic influences and innovative thinking is echoed in these custom pieces that complement the home’s overall character.
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As the years pass, Villa Österlen’s façade and roof will mature in aesthetics, embodying the slow change envisioned by Mellgren and paying homage to the enduring presence of the church nearby.

Villa Österlen by Note Design Studio not only respects local tradition but also imbues it with a modern sensibility, creating a timeless architectural statement.

Source: urdesignmag.com
Frequently asked questions
How does Note Design Studio approach architecture?
Note Design Studio integrates its expertise in product and interior design, crafting homes rooted in their environment rather than pre-defined forms. Their approach is explorative, focusing on spatial qualities from the inside out.
What materials are used in Villa Österlen?
Villa Österlen uses a harmonious blend of plastered stone and a Rheinzink roof. Inside, locally-sourced materials like Swedish pine, Norwegian slate, and Bohuslän granite are used, reflecting a regional aesthetic.
How is the floor plan of Villa Österlen designed?
The floor plan is designed to facilitate family connections while providing privacy, with open communal areas that flow into personal spaces. It uses principles of both traditional and contemporary architecture to create a blend of openness and intimacy.
