Leibal — Sjöparken

Sjöparken is a series of minimalist villas located in Halland, Sweden, designed by Norm Architects. At the core of the concept lie seven villas gracefully positioned along the lake. Connected by glass corridors, each villa seamlessly combines four hotel rooms, evoking the ambiance of an open-air village and paying homage to the site’s history. This deliberate design blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, deepening the connection with nature. Whether it’s taking a dip in the private lakefront jetties, unwinding in in-room saunas, or simply enjoying the expansive views through large windows, every moment at Sjöparken is an immersive experience. The minimalist and serene rooms are designed to encourage stillness, togetherness, and well-being.

Expanding the collaboration with the Michelin-starred restaurant ÄNG, Sjöparken seamlessly integrates with Ästad Vingård, extending the hotel’s offerings. This venture transcends functionality, demonstrating the power of collaboration between Ästad and Norm Architects, resulting in a harmonious and aesthetically aligned estate. Sjöparken distinguishes itself by prioritizing a direct and immersive connection with its natural surroundings, a philosophy ingrained in both its architecture and interior spaces. The seamless integration of indoor and outdoor areas isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s a fundamental principle influencing design decisions. Sunlight filtering through the rooms, materials that mirror the natural environment, and fluid movement within the hotel are all intentional gestures.

This approach highlights the belief that architecture can bridge the gap between the man-made and the organic, creating an experience that resonates with Ästad Vingård’s essence. The architecture pays homage to local building traditions, incorporating wooden cladding and green roofs, creating visual harmony with the surroundings. The villas offer an escape into nature’s embrace, where architecture serves as a conduit for luxurious living within the pristine Swedish landscape. Uninterrupted lake views are a constant presence as the villas form a floating village, each with a discreetly hidden private pool beneath the lake’s surface. The design instinctively fosters a sense of ease, with the sound of water and the play of light on it creating a calming ambiance.

Even the lake’s scents contribute to this unique experience. From the use of raw natural materials to the strategic filtering of light through louvers, textiles, and skylights, every element of the interior design is intricately linked to the natural surroundings. Wooden louvers divide the lounge area and bedroom, transforming filtered light into captivating wall art and eliminating the need for additional decor. The interplay of light, from dynamic triangles to soft filtering through natural fibers, ensures that each experience in the rooms is distinct. Artificial lighting, carefully curated in collaboration with Anker&Co, enhances the tactile nature of the space without overwhelming the breathtaking natural scenery outside.