- Interior
- Architecture & development
Tucked away in a clearing in the heart of a dense spruce forest lies a unique wooden house. The design was tailored entirely to the existing surroundings, with nature being adapted to the house rather than the other way round. Not a single tree was felled, and the positioning of the living spaces ensures that the forest remains visible from almost every angle. Large windows bring the greenery inside and make the landscape a constantly present backdrop.
Behind this project is interior designer Olga Ryukina, who created this home for her own family. Her personal involvement is evident in every detail, without the design feeling heavy-handed. Her approach stems from a clear vision of living in harmony with the surroundings, after which the project developed step by step into a coherent whole in which materials, layout and atmosphere reinforce one another. 
The structure of the house is built around a timber outer shell, whilst inside, a conscious decision was made to opt for more flexible solutions. This combination required precise technical execution, particularly where different materials meet. The result is a home that feels both robust and adaptable, with a layout that is logically and fluidly organised across two levels. 
The structure of the house is built around a timber outer shell, whilst inside, a conscious decision was made to opt for more flexible solutions
On the ground floor, the living spaces flow into one another, with a striking double-height ceiling in the living room that enhances the sense of openness. Upstairs are the more private areas, including bedrooms and a workspace. A reading nook with views of both the interior and the woodland forms a secluded spot within the whole, where tranquillity and focus come together. 
The use of materials remains true to the essence. Wood, natural stone and steel are combined without any single element dominating. Soft colour accents and varied textures bring nuance to the whole. Bespoke furniture and carefully selected vintage pieces give the interior its own identity. The home thus forms a place where daily life flows naturally.
Photography by Liza Gurovskaya
Text by Melissa Helsen