Villa S

Bergen, Norway

Architects: Todd Saunders

The building has been described by the architect (and home owner) Todd Saunders as being 'like three sticks, stacked on top of each other.' Rightly so: the modern home echoes the look of a giant game of pick up sticks, in the middle of Bergen, Norway.

A long horizontal beam forms the core structure of the house, with the kitchen at its centre.

What may appear as a straight-forward design deserves a closer look, for various spatial tricks, hidden alignments and terraces display a huge amount of attention to detail - something perhaps only architects or those with a keen eye could detect.

A stained black wood exterior gives character where other modern architecture homes may not. Sheltered terraces at points around the house provide relaxing spaces that can be enjoyed even with the rain that frequents Bergen. A set of swings feature in one of the covered outside areas, providing a finishing touch to the contemporary family home.