Summer House Renovation and Extension ©Harni‑Takahashi ltd.

Summer Residence

Renovation and extension of a summer house
Central Finland

architects SAFA: Kristiina Harni, Pekka Harni
& assisted by designer Yuka Takahashi

The former barn and storage building was transformed into a summer residence with an atelier space, kitchen and dining room, and three sleeping areas. The skylights provide soft light to the atelier space, while horizontal forest windows offer a wide panoramic view of the surroundings. The heat-storing fireplace was specifically designed by architect Heikki Hyytiäinen.

All the ceilings in the newly built rooms are covered with sawn untreated boarding. Using untreated wood allows you to enjoy a natural aroma and a unique atmosphere. The walls are insulated with Ecowool, made from recycled paper, and covered with plywood. The plywood is painted with transparent Osmo color oil wax with a hint of white pigment, which has kept it in excellent condition. All the floors are made of wooden floorboards, also painted with transparent Osmo colour floor oil wax. All the rooms are built without any baseboards.

The terrace areas at the end of the building are covered with roofs, creating long horizontal shadows and protecting the terrace from rain and snow. The terrace is open on both sides of the building, allowing for views to the lakeside as well as morning and evening sun.