Urban-nature Cabin in Bergen, Norway
Designed by Oliver Heath Design for TV2’s ‘Tid for Hjem’ (Time for Home)
The existing layout of the family room was lacking good circulation and the kitchen was isolated and dingy. We solved this by demolishing the wall next to the kitchen to create an open-plan interior where natural light could easily flow throughout the entire space. The new kitchen now extends behind the fireplace into the rest of the room, however still remains separate from the dining area, office and lounge; the defined ‘zones’ within the room encourage eye-contact across the interior, creating a more sociable space for the family to cook, relax and work in. Before, the windows weren’t used efficiently; now, the layout has been designed so that family activities are directed towards the windows – making the most of the beautiful views of the Nordic landscape.
The kitchen area features black painted cabinets, which are complemented by leather door handles and a marble-effect counter top. The vast rear wall is clad with vertical timber panels and softly lit with an LED strip, creating a relaxing environment to cook in.
The dining area features a bespoke peg wall, for where the family can display personal objects and add a sense of character and identity to the space.
The lounge and dining areas are subtly divided thanks to the wonderful hanging Kokedama plants, which Oliver had a lot of fun making – these add vibrancy, texture as well an sense of magic and delight to the interior!
The colour scheme was inspired by a photograph of an urban-nature sunset (taken by Oliver in Romania), which is incorporated into the new lounge area. We painted the ceiling in a pale blue to lift the space and make it feel more bright and energising. These moods created by the different tones of blue are consistent throughout and are complemented by natural textures, patterns and greenery. Finally, the dark ink blue column with gold leaf insert creates a striking and mesmerising focal point to the room, for where the family can cosily gather on a snowy evening and watch the fire flicker.