In the fifth episode, Lerum – House Dreams, we follow Silvia and Johan to Lerum, where they embark on an ambitious project: to build a natural house that not only blends in with its surroundings, but also lives in symbiosis with nature. With a strong desire to reduce their ecological footprint and a passion for the outdoors, their journey is both inspiring and challenging.
Table of contents
Background information
Silvia and Johan share a strong love for nature and an active outdoor life. Silvia, who works in the Swedish Armed Forces and has experience from serving abroad in Afghanistan, and Johan, a lighting designer and multi-sports competitor, found each other during a Håkan Hellström concert in Slottskogen. Their shared dream is to create a home that reflects their lifestyle and values.
“We wanted to create a home that feels like an extension of the nature around us,” Silvia says with a smile.
Facts about the house
Location: Lerum, Sweden
Size: 212 m² living space, 123 m² greenhouse
Material selection: CLT, wood fiber insulation, solid wood flooring without glue
Budget: SEK 8 million (final cost approx. 8.6-8.7 million)
Timetable: Originally 6 months, delayed due to weather and contractor changes
Architectural style: Modern natural house with passive house standard
Challenges along the way
The construction process faced several challenges. An unexpected rainstorm caused water damage before the building was weatherproofed, which significantly delayed construction.
“There were times when we wondered if we were in over our heads,” admits Johan, looking back on the rain chaos.
In addition, problems with construction contractors led to further delays. In the midst of all this, they welcomed their third child, making the balancing act between family life and construction projects even more complex.
Design and inspiration
The nature house is designed with a recycling system that mirrors nature’s own. A sanitation zone for dirty clothes and bicycles leads into the living area, where a large kitchen and living room create the heart of the home. Four identical bedrooms, two bathrooms and a gym upstairs are complemented by a greenhouse with fruit trees and vegetable gardens.
“We’ve had a very simplified wall with just the wood through it,” Johan explains of their minimalist and eco-friendly building technique.
Final result
Despite delays and challenges, the family managed to move into their new home, although the greenhouse was still waiting to be completed. The house is a tribute to sustainability, creativity and the family’s persistence.
“This house is more than just walls and ceilings – it’s a dream that we built with our own hands,” Silvia says proudly.
Their journey shows that even the biggest dreams can be realized with passion, persistence and a love of nature.
Read more
Season 9, Episode 6, Klagstorp – House dreams
Watch Husdrömmar on SVT Play
