Nestled within the peaceful, forested stretch of Vollerup Strand in Denmark—just a scenic 90-minute drive north of Copenhagen—sits a remarkable low-impact summerhouse designed as a heartfelt homage to nature, family, and sustainable living. This serene retreat, known simply as Harmoni Home, was brought to life through a close collaboration between a couple deeply rooted in creative and environmental values, and an architect with a vision shaped by both Japanese minimalism and Danish functionality.
The creators, who spend their weekdays immersed in the buzz of Frederiksberg, yearned for a weekend escape that would reconnect them—and their young son—with the simplicity of nature. Raised in environments where green spaces and forests were part of everyday life, they wanted their child to enjoy the same connection to the outdoors. When they discovered a quiet parcel of land in Vollerup, they knew it was the right place to build something meaningful. Partnering with a long-time friend, an architect embarking on his own design practice, they set out to create a summerhouse that was as low-impact as it was beautiful.
A Philosophy of Less Impact, More Meaning
From the beginning, the project’s approach was guided by a holistic vision of environmental stewardship. The goal was to design a cabin that minimized its carbon footprint both in construction and in daily use. Sourcing became a key focus: around 95% of the materials used were obtained locally within Denmark—from sustainably harvested timber to windows crafted with energy efficiency in mind. The remaining materials came from nearby Sweden, keeping transportation emissions to a minimum.
One of the most intentional decisions was to elevate the structure on concrete piers rather than pouring a traditional concrete foundation. While concrete is durable, it carries a heavy environmental cost. This choice dramatically reduced the use of the material. In selecting the exact placement for the house, the team carefully chose a spot that required the removal of only one tree—no easy task in a densely wooded area.
Craftsmanship Rooted in Family and Heritage
The exterior of the home is clad in Danish Douglas fir, paired with raw aluminum to achieve a balanced contrast between natural textures and modern resilience. The craftsmanship tells a deeper story: one of family involvement, generational knowledge, and care. An experienced carpenter, now in his seventies, played a vital role in the construction, bringing wisdom and hands-on expertise to every detail. Building alongside him became not just a practical endeavor, but a treasured opportunity to learn and collaborate as a family.
Inside, the house is a calming, cohesive space. Walls and floors are crafted entirely from Douglas fir and finished with a light white-tinted oil, which allows the grain of the wood to breathe and glow softly in the natural light. Wide planks underfoot evoke the feeling of a forest path, warm and grounding.
A Mindful Interior: Vintage Finds and Lasting Design
Rather than rush to fill the space with brand-new furnishings, the homeowners took their time curating a collection of vintage and pre-loved pieces from across Scandinavia and Europe. Every item was chosen with intention—whether for its sustainability, character, or craftsmanship. The result is a home that feels lived-in, layered, and timeless. No element feels temporary or mass-produced; instead, the interior tells a story of continuity, care, and ecological mindfulness.
The kitchen, a central hub of the home, was designed with both form and function in mind. It features drawer fronts made from larch wood, topped with durable Forbo linoleum counters. Appliances were selected for energy efficiency, and fixtures reflect the home’s clean, contemporary aesthetic, all while honoring the warmth of natural materials.
Energy Efficiency by Design
Beyond the visible details, the house is equipped with systems that support long-term sustainability. A naturally planted filtration system processes wastewater without chemicals. A tankless water heater ensures that energy is used only when needed. The heating system is low-energy, and high-performance triple-glazed windows help retain warmth during the colder months. The layout of the house also supports passive heating and cooling, with the central living area maintaining the highest levels of comfort while the outer rooms remain cooler—an intentional design that mimics the natural temperature zoning found in older rural homes.
A Place to Slow Down and Reconnect
Harmoni Home is more than just a summerhouse. It’s a living, breathing reflection of a philosophy—one that values simplicity, respect for the land, and thoughtful design. Here, modern Danish living meets age-old wisdom, and the result is a retreat that blends seamlessly with its forested surroundings. Whether enjoying the filtered light dancing across the wood-paneled walls or gathering around a meal in the open kitchen, this home invites its inhabitants to slow down, breathe deeply, and live lightly.