Embracing Nature: The South Loft by Fria Folket
Hospitality Architecture

Embracing Nature: The South Loft by Fria Folket

Overview

Fria Folket, a Swedish studio, has unveiled the South Loft, the second of four planned getaways as part of the Bergaliv landscape hotel project. Nestled on the Åsberget Mountain hillside in Northern Sweden, this wooden house offers breathtaking views of the Ljusnan river valley, sharing its location with the Lofthouse, its sibling retreat.

Harmonious Integration

Perched on a rock ledge, the South Loft strikes a delicate balance between panoramic vistas and a seamless connection to the surrounding forest. It seamlessly merges the open-air space typical of the first cabin with a heated living area enclosed within a structured volume, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living.

Spacious Interiors

Characterized by soaring ceilings reaching 15 feet, the sheltered room boasts an expansive indoor space of 20 sqm, complemented by a cozy sleeping loft. This design choice aims to foster a sense of airiness and openness within the confines of the cabin, enhancing the overall experience of tranquility and immersion in nature.

Minimalist Furnishings

In line with the serene ambiance of the natural surroundings, the South Loft features minimal furnishings designed to complement rather than detract from the landscape. The interior is adorned with a sparse selection of furnishings, easily stowed away or rearranged as needed, allowing occupants to adapt the space to suit different activities and times of day.

Tranquil Retreat

The main room is anchored by two square windows, framed by pale birch plywood, offering serene vistas for relaxation and meditation. An extended bench serves multiple purposes, from seating during mealtime to a bed for sleeping, while also providing an elevated platform for yoga practice or simply admiring the scenery.

Natural Materials

Echoing the hues of the surrounding landscape, the South Loft utilizes a palette of natural materials, including birch, fir, and heart pine. Embracing Nordic building traditions, the construction is entirely free from plastics, with walls and roofs insulated using flax fibers. This commitment to sustainable building practices further enhances the retreat’s integration with its natural environment.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *