The Scandinavian design scene is nothing shy of romanticisation. Like that of your first love, experimental, masked with a ‘less is more’ approach and persistent attention to detail. Thus, it’s unsurprising that an aesthetic would prevail as a nod to Nordic design.
The Nordic design landscape is effortlessly cool. Transcending the zeitgeist, Scandinavians have always written their narrative when it came to design. Copencore embodies the design principles – espouses sustainable practices, revels in neutral tones and experiments with style – commonly seen in the Nordic culture.
These designers, whether knowingly or inadvertently, have adopted the principles of Copencore. While it may not permeate every project in their design portfolio, it certainly manifests in the following list of design ventures. These projects are characterised by geometrics, vibrant colour palettes and rich textures, all intertwined with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and supporting local craftsmanship.
Cabin House by Taliesyn Architecture
Taliesyn Architecture meld simplicity, functionality and a connection to nature in their oeuvre. Cabin House is a weekend home that invokes feelings of relaxation and rejuvenation. Characterised by a cohesive use of pigmented concrete, the interior is unified with a warm terracotta hue that envelops the space. This structure scales the southern wall to shape built-in seating, an archway and a staircase leading to the mezzanine bedroom. The rich colour of the concrete fosters a sense of movement and playfulness, effectively delineating distinct zones within the home. Cabin House is offset by its uncluttered interior and abundant natural light permeating through the louvres, clerestory windows and expansive doorway. Taliesyn devised these many openings to optimise the thermal performance by maximising ventilation and minimising reliance on the grid.
123 House by Neil Cownie Architects
Neil Cownie Architects’ design philosophy deviates from conventionality. 123 House honours heritage and a bygone era, while adapting to contemporary ideals. It is a two-storey dwelling that hugs the front boundaries, paying homage to the post-depression building period. The house’s orientation maximises natural light, with controlled northern light filtering into indoor spaces during winter. The integration of textural brickwork, terrazzo floor tiles and acoustic textured board is a nod to the Mediterranean and the owners’ Greek heritage, contributing to a neutral yet emotionally resonant interior. Through subtle interplays of colour and texture, 123 House offers a sensory experience that harmonises tradition with innovation.
Grotto Studio fosters collaboration with local craftsmen in an array of their projects, reflecting a commitment to community engagement and sustainable practices. At Shadow House, materiality serves as a cornerstone of the architectural language, with the contrasting textures and tones creating a dynamic interplay throughout the space. The black charred exterior juxtaposes against the light-toned plywood in the living area, while the rich ochre red of the bathroom evokes a sense of enclosure and protection. Natural light plays a pivotal role in the design, with the interior atrium adorned with raw Jarrah, aging gracefully over time while emanating warmth. Designed around daylight, the home’s northwest orientation ensures a harmonious interplay of light and shadow, further enhancing its timeless appeal and connection to its surroundings.
Forest Villa by HAS Design and Research
With a high level of meticulous attention to detail and expert craftsmanship, HAS Design and Research creates layered and thoughtful retreats, that blend seamlessly with their idyllic surroundings. Paying homage to the environment, Forest Villa integrates into the landscape, fostering a serene and minimalistic atmosphere. The design ethos emphasises simplicity and refinement, with furnishings curated specifically to complement the tranquil setting. The colour palette, predominantly white with accents of green from the surrounding foliage, further accentuates the villa’s connection to nature. This thoughtful approach to design highlights the principle of “less is more,” where every detail is purposefully considered.
Maison Brummell Majorelle by Bergendy Cooke
Bergendy Cooke designs ebullient architecture that resonates with guests from diverse backgrounds. Maison Brummell Majorelle is something of a residential home that acts as a boutique hotel in Marrakesh. The exterior facade is adorned with Pisé – a technique utilising earth for colouring and texture — and exudes a tactile roughness while presenting an imposing sculptural presence. The interior comprises local materials that were found either through research or simply seeing what was available locally – namely Tadelakt and terrazzo – and minimalist design principles.