Mer Architects has completed a new coastal residence on Långholmen Island, located within Finland's extensive archipelago in the Baltic Sea. The timber structure sits delicately among granite and gneiss outcroppings that were shaped by post-glacial geological processes over thousands of years. Pine trees grow directly from shallow soil pockets along the shoreline, creating a dense natural canopy around the building site. The design team carefully positioned the house to follow existing land contours rather than altering the landscape, demonstrating a deep respect for the island's unique ecology and geological history.
The arrival experience begins from the open sea, approaching a sheltered cove where a large timber jetty serves as the primary outdoor living area. This expansive wooden platform extends the natural shoreline, providing space for gathering while maintaining a low profile against the water. An elevated wooden pathway then guides visitors through reeds and pine stands toward the house. The structure reveals itself gradually between tree trunks, creating a sense of discovery and connection to the forested setting. This sequential movement through the landscape is central to the architectural narrative and echoes traditional approaches to Finnish coastal settlements.
The building consists of two compact volumes united beneath a single folded roof plane. One volume houses the sauna suite with shower and changing facilities, while the other contains a combined living and sleeping space. A covered outdoor room positioned between these volumes functions as a spatial hinge, drawing attention to views of the sea. The wall facing the sauna is constructed in light brick and features a diagonal open fireplace, introducing thermal mass and visual weight to the otherwise timber-dominant structure. This central aperture frames a specific composition of rock, water, and vegetation while providing a sheltered space usable in changing weather.
All exterior timber surfaces are clad in untreated larch, a material commonly used in traditional fishing huts throughout the region. Over time, this wood will weather to a muted grey that harmonizes with the surrounding rock faces and pine bark. On the sea-facing elevation, sliding timber slat screens moderate sunlight while protecting birds from window strikes. These adjustable elements also provide privacy without creating a fixed barrier. The roof is finished in light grey metal sheeting chosen for its reflective qualities during summer months, while its folded geometry maintains a low silhouette against the horizon.
Interior walls and ceilings feature consistent timber cladding that softly reflects natural light throughout the day. Selected floors are finished in oiled cement tiles, providing tactile variation underfoot. The main living volume incorporates a bespoke bunk bed system with pull-out double beds, a compact kitchen, dining area, and fireplace. An outdoor kitchen is concealed behind the rear facade, positioned to keep interior sightlines focused on the water. The sauna sits close to the shoreline, oriented to capture evening sunlight that casts warm tones across interior surfaces and creates a direct connection to the sea for swimming.
Sustainability features include natural ventilation through operable shutters near sleeping areas and a composting toilet that reduces infrastructure demands on the remote island. Every element is precisely sized to the compact footprint, demonstrating how thoughtful design can create comfortable living spaces while preserving fragile ecosystems. The project stands as a contemporary interpretation of Finnish coastal building traditions, balancing modern comfort with environmental sensitivity. Mer Architects has created a model for how architecture can enhance rather than dominate its natural setting.
