Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves caressing the shore of your own island. Jenny Sandskog and Benjamin Nordin from Älvsjö made this dream a reality when they decided to build a unique summer house on their 1.5 hectare island in the Roslagen archipelago. The project was documented in the premiere episode of Roslagen – Grand Designs Sweden, and the journey was filled with both challenges and insights. Here we tell the story of the couple’s journey from vision to finished house – a story that inspires and shows the importance of daring to think big.
Table of contents
The dream of peace and quiet
With busy careers in the medical industry and the financial sector, Jenny and Benjamin longed for a place where they could relax and get closer to nature. Their island, formerly a 19th-century archipelago home, has a rich history of seal owners and fishermen. The old main house was charming, but its small windows and limited views of the sea made the couple dream of something new – a building that would unite them with their surroundings, both aesthetically and functionally.
The unique architecture and materials of the house
The couple worked with architect Johan Arrhov to create a modern summer house inspired by the island’s old boathouses. The 100-square-meter house impresses with its cantilevered roof made of corrugated fiberglass – a material usually used for simpler buildings. Along with a siliconized wood façade and large windows framing the view, the building is an example of innovative architecture that still respects the history of the site. The interior combines industrial rawness with natural materials such as plywood, creating a warm and inviting feel.
The challenges of building on an island
Building in an isolated location with no road access is no easy task. Each shipment of materials has to be transported by boat, which is both costly and time-consuming. The couple encountered difficulties early on in finding contractors willing to take on the project. Once construction started, the logistics proved even more demanding than expected. For example, they chose to hand-mix the concrete for the foundation on site, which led to a number of complications.
Perhaps the biggest setback came when the concrete slab was found to be incorrectly cast, with rebar too shallow. This problem threatened to delay construction by several months, and negotiations with the contractor over liability and costs took a lot of energy. Despite the setbacks, Jenny and Benjamin managed to stick to their dream and find solutions to every obstacle.
An educational journey for Jenny and Benjamin
For Jenny and Benjamin, who had no experience in building houses, the project was an eye-opener. They quickly realized that preparation and planning are crucial, especially in a place where every mistake has major consequences. The couple admits that their ignorance sometimes led to problems, but they also look back on the project with pride and gratitude for all they learned.
The result - a modern architectural gem
When Mark Isitt, the host of Grand Designs Sweden, returned to the island after two and a half years, he was greeted by a house that exceeded all expectations. The mirror-like glass façade reflects the surrounding nature and gives the building an almost invisible character. The roof, which was initially met with skepticism, has proven to be both durable and aesthetically striking. The interior, with its mix of simplicity and sophistication, offers a perfect balance between function and design. Jenny and Benjamin have created a place that is not only a haven for the family, but also an example of what courage and vision can achieve.
Facts about the house
Construction start: Spring 2019
Size: 100 sqm
Architect: Johan Arrhov
Planned completion: Spring 2020 (completed in fall 2021)
Budget: SEK 3 million
Frame: Solid wood
Roof: Corrugated fiberglass
Ground: Concrete slab
Facade: Silica-treated spruce
Closure
The story of Jenny and Benjamin’s summer house on their own island is a reminder of the importance of daring to make your dreams come true, even when the road ahead is filled with challenges. At Stiligt, we love to be inspired by projects like this – where courage, creativity and perseverance come together to create something truly unique.
Looking for inspiration for your own dream project? At Stiligt, you’ll find tips and ideas for creating architectural gems that will last for generations.
