Summerhouse V by Playa Architects: A Harmonious Retreat in Finland

Summerhouse V, a project by Playa Architects, is a testament to Finland’s architectural mastery, where nature and design coexist harmoniously. Nestled on a small rocky island in Lake Suontee, this summerhouse redefines island living. Designed by lead architects Tuukka Vuori and Ulla Kuitunen, the project blends contemporary craftsmanship with timeless Scandinavian traditions.

Location and Context

The summerhouse is located in Hirvensalmi, Finland, on an idyllic island surrounded by the pristine waters of Lake Suontee. This serene setting also houses a small fishing cabin from the 1960s and a sauna building from the 1980s, both reflecting the heritage of the client family.

When the original fishing cabin became too small to accommodate the growing family, Playa Architects were tasked with creating a new structure that embraces the essence of Finnish summer living while maximizing functionality and comfort.

Design Philosophy

Embracing the Landscape

The summerhouse occupies the island’s most scenic and flat area, offering breathtaking views of the lake while withstanding the region's strong winds. Its strategic placement allows the building to integrate seamlessly into the natural environment.

The structure’s saddle roof with extended eaves provides additional protection from the elements. Covered outdoor areas are thoughtfully designed to shield against winds while framing the picturesque views of the lake.

Architectural Features

Materiality and Construction

The building employs a non-insulated 200 mm thick cross-laminated timber (CLT) frame, designed for easy transport and assembly. The precision of CNC machining ensures clean, elegant details. The CLT structure, combined with wood fiber insulation and beams made of laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and glulam, exemplifies efficient and sustainable construction techniques.

Sustainability and Simplicity

Spruce wood dominates the building’s interior and exterior. The untreated surfaces highlight the natural beauty of the material while adhering to the minimalistic design principles characteristic of Scandinavian architecture. This material palette not only enhances aesthetics but also promotes sustainability.

Interior Design

Open and Airy Spaces

The heart of the summerhouse is its open-plan kitchen and living area. This space, characterized by the visible saddle roof, provides an unobstructed view of the lake and captures the warm glow of the evening sun.

Large windows and strategically positioned walls create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors, bringing the surrounding forest and lake into every corner of the home.

Functional Elegance

The interiors are simple yet refined, with exposed beams and untreated wood contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Functional elements such as furniture and countertops are carefully integrated, balancing practicality and design.

Connection to Finnish Culture

The design of Summerhouse V reflects Finland’s deep-rooted respect for nature and sustainability. By using locally sourced materials and adopting a design that harmonizes with the environment, Playa Architects have created a structure that resonates with the timeless principles of Finnish architecture.

Summerhouse V by Playa Architects is more than just a summer retreat; it is an embodiment of sustainable living and thoughtful design. From its CLT frame to its connection with the natural surroundings, this project is a shining example of modern summerhouse design in Finland.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or someone seeking inspiration for sustainable living, Summerhouse V offers a profound narrative of how design can harmonize with nature to create timeless beauty.

All the photographs are work of Tuomas Uusheimo