The Gimme Shelter project is a distinctive and adaptable modular home designed by Swedish architect Emelie Holmberg for her own use in the pristine woodland on the island of Väddö, Sweden. The house, completed in 2021, served as a prototype for a new housing model and later led to the creation of the company gimme shelter solutions, founded by Holmberg in 2018.

The design consists of two separate wooden modules: a larger, 32-square-meter living unit and a smaller, 10-square-meter sleeping unit. These units are linked by a sheltered outdoor space, allowing for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor life. The project's aesthetic is influenced by traditional Swedish building methods, particularly the use of prefabricated parts to reduce cost, and by Japanese architecture, which emphasizes simplicity and a connection to nature. The modules feature wide verandas and large windows that frame panoramic views of the surrounding forest, further blurring the line between the built and natural environment.

The gimme shelter solutions company builds upon this initial project by offering a "Lego-like" system of prefabricated modular homes. Customers can combine various modules of different sizes to create a personalized, unique home that suits their needs and budget. This scalable approach allows homeowners to start small and expand their living space over time if their circumstances change. Beyond the standard living units, the company also offers specialized modules such as yoga studios, workshops, and saunas, all designed with sustainability in mind.

Credits

Architect: gimme shelter solutions / Emelie Holmberg

Photography: James Silverman