In the sixth episode, Klagstorp – Husdrömmar, we are taken on a journey that is about more than just building a house. It’s about creating a new life. Giril and Björn leave the dramatic fjords of Norway for the open landscapes of Skåne, where they realize their dream of a modern Skåne barn in Klagstorp. This episode offers a fascinating mix of architectural challenges, personal stories and a lot of emotional drama.
Table of contents
Background information
Giril, a 49-year-old graphic designer, and Björn, a 57-year-old heavy machinery salesman, are leaving Norway behind. For Björn, who has roots in Skåne, it was paradoxically harder to say goodbye. “There were times when we wondered if we were in over our heads,” he admits. Giril, on the other hand, fell in love with Skåne’s open landscape at first sight: “Even then I was sold. Completely lost in Skåne.”
Facts about the house
Location: Klagstorp, Skåne, near Smygehuk
Size: 220 m² on one and a half levels
Material choices: Concrete base, steel beam to create space, traditional mullioned windows
Budget: SEK 8 million for land, house and renovation of the stately home; final cost about SEK 9.3 million
From drawing board to reality
The project faced several unexpected obstacles. The building permit needed to be amended following a crucial architectural advice: to turn the angular design of the house into a straight, long wing. This meant a delay but also gave the house its characteristic flow of light and open feel. “We thought it was just a small change, but it was absolutely worth it,” says Giril.
Another big challenge was the financial side. The renovation of the old stately home was costly, leading to sleepless nights and a large bank loan. “Financially, it’s been a real mess,” Björn jokes, with a hint of seriousness behind the words.
Architecture with heart and soul
Giril, who designed the house herself, was inspired by both traditional Scanian barns and modern minimalist forms. Her father, a master builder, taught her the basics of building techniques: “I used all the knowledge he gave me to realize our project.” The result is a house that is equal parts country charm and modern elegance.
A new life in an old barn
While the building permit was pending, they tackled the stately home. A project that turned out to be more extensive than planned. “I feel like the house is saying thank you for coming and taking care of me,” Björn reflects. Living there during construction not only saved them rent, but allowed them to be present at every construction decision.
Final result
Despite budget overruns and delays, the house was ready for Norway’s national day. A symbolic victory for the couple. “This house is more than just walls and a roof – it’s a dream that we built with our own hands,” Giril says proudly. The long, unbroken axis through the house, the fireplace that can be seen from several directions, and the view of the sea are some of the highlights.
The episode shows that a home is not just a place, but a reflection of the dreams, decisions and challenges that shape it.
