Relaxing on all Cylinders
Those who book to stay at the Birkedal summer house expecting to see a twee country cottage would be somewhat surprised. Designed and built by architect Jan Henrik Jansen, this characterful holiday home on the island of Mon in Denmark is composed of nine interconnected cylindrical volumes punctuated by rectangular windows.
From the outside the house exudes a retro-futuristic and slightly whimsical vibe, but the design is as functional as it is stylish. The rooms inside, all round of course, are well proportioned and flow into each other with graceful fluidity. The choice of materials provides plenty of visual and tactile interest, from the aged bronze finish of the metal fittings to the pebble-dash floor and grooved panelling on the walls. The latter conceal copious amount of storage within built-in cabinets, thus solving the perennial headache of fitting rectangular shelves and cabinets against circular walls.
Where rectangular shapes are used, such as for the kitchen counter, they take on a sculptural quality when juxtaposed against the curved walls. We particularly like the unusual positioning of the foot of the bed against the window, which enables a small desk to be fitted behind the headboard in the centre of the room. The beautiful woodland views outside the picture window will no doubt guarantee long lie-ins.
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Product Inspiration
Curves are cool! Go for voluptuous rounded shapes with the Julep chaise longue from Tacchini, the Ruff armchair from Moroso and the Vesper coffee table from Sancal.
Rounded shapes make for great lighting. Try the Spiro suspension light from LZF, the Lederam wall light from Catellani & Smith and the Flar floor and table light from Lodes.
For accessories with a rounded, organic vibe try the Sphere vase from 101 Copenhagen, the Bubbly bowl from Atelier Polyhedre and the Tornado vase from Ghidini 1961.
