Completed in 2015, the Summer House Gravråk project is a renovation and extension of a traditional "Nordlandshus" on a remote coastal site near Andopen, in the Flakstad municipality of Norway's Lofoten archipelago. Designed by Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk with his team, the 25-square-meter project successfully blends the rehabilitation of the old timber structure with a new, contemporary addition. The design is a sensitive and sophisticated response to the site's stunning yet demanding coastal climate, characterized by spectacular mountains and harsh winds.

The original concept involved encasing the weathered timber core within a new protective shell, allowing the old house to stand freely inside. While this initial plan was modified, the final result still features a distinct and respectful relationship between the old and new elements. The built project focuses on the renovation of the existing house and the construction of a westward extension. The addition acts as a "pure extension," echoing the geometrical principles of the original structure, notably its asymmetrical dormer windows, which allow light into the loft and frame views of the landscape.

To withstand the extreme wind conditions of the area, the structures are anchored using different methods. The pre-existing Nordlandshus is secured to the ground with guy wires, while the new prefabricated pine glulam extension is wind-anchored to an encompassing concrete slab, which provides a stabilizing counterweight. This structural duality highlights the architects' adaptive and thoughtful approach to construction in a challenging environment.

The material palette chosen for the Summer House Gravråk is both humble and resilient, allowing the building to integrate with its natural surroundings.

The addition is clad in untreated spruce, a material selected to develop a natural, gray patina over time as it is exposed to sun and rain. The roof is covered with standing seam zinc roofing, offering durability against the elements.

The interior features birch plywood cladding and pine flooring, providing a warm and modern finish. The windows are a two-fold design, with aluminum frames on the exterior for protection and wood on the interior to match the warm timber finishes.

An artwork titled "this must be the place" by Swedish artist Jan Håfstrøm is integrated into the design, adding a unique and personal touch.

Project credits

The project was executed by Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk's architectural team.

Architectural team:

Architect in charge: Carl-Viggo Hølmebakk

Architects: Anette Bringsverd, Elisabeth Øymo, Halvard Amble, Hilde Rostadmo

Client: The project was built for a young family.

Windows: Velfac

Roofing material: VMZINC

Stove/fireplace: Brunner

Artwork: Jan Håfstrøm