Nature at the fore Clad in stained wood with swathes of glass panels, this property in Sweden’s Skåne region is stylish, simplistic and intrinsically Scandi
The home of String’s co-founder Peter Erlandsson is much like the shelving brand’s designs – simple, stylish and intrinsically Scandinavian
When Peter Erlandsson, co-founder of shelving brand String, began looking for a home in Sweden’s southern Skåne region, he was attracted not by a house, but by a plot of land. ‘I had known the area for some time, having played golf at the local course for years,’ he explains. ‘When you look from the second hole, there is a view of a very downto-earth, simple home that I thought would work perfectly. I researched the owner and discovered it was the summer house of Swedish architect Per Friberg, so I asked him to design something for me.’
Better known for his landscape designs, Per’s villa projects are made to harmoniously blend in with their natural surroundings. Offering outstanding views and privacy, his homes are modern, moderate living spaces. ‘Most importantly for us, he knew the location very well,’ adds Peter. This house, completed in 1999, sits on concrete foundations with the main structure made from wood clad with Siberian larch. An extension, adding further bedrooms and communal spaces, was built in 2003, with Per involved for a second time – continuity of vision is important to both men.
Per also assisted in designing the interior, with his nature-focused style especially visible in the kitchen. ‘We used a lot of stained wood to marry the home’s inside with the greenery outside,’ says Peter. A love of classic Danish furniture also roots this home in its location as, after all, Denmark is just a short hop across the Øresund strait. Peter’s collection is a who’s who of the country’s greats, with pieces by Hans J Wegner, Ole Wanscher, Finn Juhl and many more.
There is a sense of honesty to this property, from the materials used to the way the building has evolved for family life. ‘The story of the house’s design is an organic one,’ agrees Peter. ‘I’m sure that’s why it’s such a comfortable place to live.’ stringfurniture.com