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Built in 2014, the Qvarsebo Summerhouse, also known as the Summer House in Dalarna, is an 85-square-meter minimalist retreat located in Västerbyn, Sweden, and designed by architect Leo Qvarsebo for himself and his children. The house, with its striking triangular profile, was conceived as a "treehouse for adults" and is nestled between a forest and a cow pasture, with panoramic views toward a nearby lake. To maximize the benefits of its scenic location, the house features three distinct levels, with a bay window on each to frame different views and create a sense of discovery as one climbs the internal stairs. The open-plan, split-level design creates a hierarchy of spaces, from the more communal living room and kitchen on the ground floor to the more intimate sleeping areas on the upper levels. The top-floor bedroom is designed to feel like a sleeping nest under the stars. A playful and interactive element of the design is the steeply inclined facade, which serves as a climbing wall, complete with a rope hanging from the peak of the roof for access. A large timber deck extends from the front of the house, offering additional living space with swings and lounges. The house was built entirely from wood, with a frame of wooden beams forming the A-frame structure. The exterior is clad in Swedish pine treated with a grey-hued pigmented wood protection from SiOO:X on the gables and a green "forest" colored treatment on other sides to help it blend with the woodland. Inside, the walls, ceiling, and floors are lined with birch plywood salvaged from a dismantled puzzle factory, and custom-built furniture was crafted from plywood to suit the split-level design. Credits Architect: Leo Qvarsebo Developer: Leo Qvarsebo, Mattias Granwald, Robobygg AB Construction: Catherine Carrick, Konkret AB Carpenters: Leo, Elias, Robert, Hanna, Karl, Linnea, Mattias Granwald, Tobbe, Pappa Photographer: Leo Qvarsebo
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Leo Qvarsebo
About
Leo Qvarsebo:
Leo Qvarsebo is a Swedish architect known for his contextual and often experimental approach to design, which is showcased through his own practice Studio LQAB and his work as head of Mixed Use at the architectural firm Equator in Stockholm. He is particularly recognized for projects like his triangular summer house in Dalarna, which doubles as a climbing wall, reflecting his philosophy of integrating architecture with nature and creating spaces that feel like "treehouses for adults". His work frequently incorporates natural materials like wood and salvaged components, emphasizing functionality and a connection to the landscape.







































































