Vemdalen Villas is a minimalist home located in Härjedalen, Sweden, designed by Hesselbrand. This development is notable for its strategic placement that allows for direct access to skiing slopes and panoramic views of the encompassing valley. Each housing unit comprises a primary residence alongside a guest house, arranged in a manner that cultivates small communal outdoor areas and walking paths, thereby evoking the ambiance of a village rather than a conventional residential street. Constructed using prefabricated timber frames, the villas are distinguished by their pine facades and are sheltered by expansive metal roofs that extend beyond the structures’ walls.
The design prominently features large windows on the main facades, which not only provide sweeping views of the valley but also contribute to a visual harmony across the semi-detached homes, making them appear as a cohesive unit. The layout of the main houses is spread across two floors, designed with a clear intention to balance communal and private spaces. By dispersing private areas throughout the residence, privacy is maximized, whereas central shared spaces are devised to foster social interaction. The use of timber not only on the exterior but also within, extending to interior walls and ceilings, creates a seamless visual and tactile connection between the outside and the inside of the homes, enriching the living experience with a natural aesthetic.