A cross-shaped summer retreat nestled in the forest with timber cladding and panoramic windows.

Timber Elegance: Johan Sundberg’s Cross-Shaped Summer Retreat in Swedish Forest

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Written by Sam Johnson

2026-09-13

A Harmonious Design with Nature at its Core

Johan Sundberg Arkitektur has crafted a captivating cross-shaped summer retreat in southern Sweden, blending effortlessly with the wooded landscape. Positioned on Hallandsåsen ridge’s north-facing slope, the 152-square-meter Pine House was a collaboration with the clients, focusing on integrating daily rhythms with natural beauty.

Embrace harmonious architecture with the Viking-inspired timber structure in Norway for more innovative wooden designs blending nature and tradition.

Modern summer house with expansive windows nestled among Swedish forest greenery.
Johan Sundberg Arkitektur has completed a summer house in southern Sweden

Engaging with the Forest Hideaway

The house’s cross-shaped plan allows you to connect with the forest. “We wanted to make a house that connects you to the place and to how the building is made,” said Johan Sundberg. The design of this dwelling pulls the viewer into the forest while offering glimpses towards the sea. It features three equally sized bedrooms, reflecting the family’s relaxed lifestyle.

Interior view showing the cross-shaped design accommodating three bedrooms.
The home’s cross-shaped plan accommodates three bedrooms

Natural Materials and Thoughtful Craftsmanship

The home is constructed with a glue-laminated timber structure clad in untreated spruce panels, designed to weather naturally. A wide decking envelops the building, supported by a concrete plinth at the north end, which provides scenic views and a serene dining terrace.

Skylight channeling natural light into the contemporary designed living space.
A long skylight draws light into the living spaces

The heartwood pine cladding, left untreated, will develop unique tones from exposure to the elements. Its overhanging eaves create a sheltered atmosphere that keeps you close to nature in this summer retreat.

Interior Spaces that Flow

Pine House greets you with an open-plan kitchen and dining area, transitioning to a living room through a skylight-illuminated passage. The main bedroom leads from a studio space with a bath and sauna, and two more bedrooms offer access to the outer deck, featuring an outdoor shower.

For another unique architectural approach, explore Zook Cabins’ Cedar Retreat, which combines luxury within a compact wooden design.

House structure made from glue-laminated and cross-laminated timber beams.
Its structure is built from glue-laminated and cross-laminated timber

Inviting Materials and Details

The interior features a harmonious palette of exposed spruce, Oregon pine joinery, and concrete flooring. Bathrooms shine with pale green lava-stone tiles. Every element, crafted in collaboration with friends and partners, reflects a precise aesthetic.

Bathroom design featuring pale green tiles creating a serene atmosphere.
Pale green tiles cloak the bathroom spaces

Photography by Markus Linderoth captures the Pine House’s serene integration with its lush surroundings. Johan Sundberg Arkitektur’s design embraces the landscape, offering a peaceful retreat intertwined with nature.

Source: dezeen.com

Frequently asked questions

What is the shape of the summer retreat designed by Johan Sundberg?

The summer retreat designed by Johan Sundberg has a cross-shaped plan, allowing the house to connect with the forest and offer views towards the sea.

What materials are used in the construction of Pine House?

Pine House is constructed with a glue-laminated timber structure clad in untreated spruce panels, and its heartwood pine cladding is left untreated to develop unique tones from exposure to the elements.

How does Pine House connect with its natural surroundings?

Pine House connects with its natural surroundings through its cross-shaped design, open-plan interior spaces, and wide decking that envelops the building to provide scenic views and a serene dining terrace.