References سكنية Villa Schjøtt

The Norwegian architect Geir Grung designed the villa for his brother-in-law Helge Schjøtt in an unmistakable geometric design language. The architect deployed his preferred materials: concrete, glass, redwood, and teak. (Image source: Terje Arntsen)

Old values, new aesthetic

Villa Schjøtt, an example of 1960s Scandinavian architecture, nestles in the heart of the Paradis district in Bergen. Designed by the Norwegian architect Geir Grung, the villa is characterized by clear geometric lines, large glass panels and a fluid interplay of interior and exterior areas. The sensitive renovation by Michelsens retained the original character while upgrading the building in line with contemporary living standards. In keeping with the stylish Japandi furnishings, the interior designers opted for the Duravit ranges Zencha, ME by Starck, and C.1 for the bathroom renovation.

Bathrooms with a Zen-like character

The villa has five bathrooms that combine functional solutions with aesthetic ones. Michelsens deliberately made the most of the existing architecture especially in the master bathroom. The result: an impressive view from every functional area. The centerpiece is the freestanding Zencha bathtub complemented by the floor-mounted C.1 bath mixer. In the other bathrooms, Zencha above-counter basins with matching vanity units set stylish accents, while ME by Starck wall-mounted toilets round off the design. Duravit hand-held and overhead showers, and shower thermostats ensure a streamlined aesthetic in the showers.

Room for clarity

Geir Grung is considered one of the most influential Norwegian architects of his era. His functionalist designs are marked by a close connection to the natural environment. With its harmonious relationship between light, nature, and architecture, Villa Schjøtt is testament this approach. Full-length windows underpin this principle as interior and exterior spaces melt into one another. While this architectural clarity was retained as part of the modernization project, the concept is enhanced by a contemporary residential aesthetic. The appearance of the building still centers on concrete, whitewashed brick walls, wood, and glass, which lend a timeless elegance. Indirect lighting ensures gentle transitions between the materials, while large glass panels funnel daylight deep into the rooms.

Infobox:

Architect: Geir Grung
Interior designer: Michelsens
Year of construction: 1968
Stucco plasterwork: Odilon Creations www.odiloncreations.com/en

Duravit products used:
Zencha above-counter basin, vanity unit, free-standing bathtub
C.1 single lever washbasin mixer, wall-mounted/floor-standing
ME by Starck wall-mounted toilet
Shower thermostat
Hand-held and overhead shower

Michelsens reflected the architectural concept in the interior, which features a calm, natural color palette. Combined with the open construction style that lets in plenty of daylight, the interior designers have created a tranquil residential atmosphere. (Image source: Terje Arntsen)

The centerpiece of the master bathroom is the freestanding, graceful Zencha bathtub. Inspired by traditional Japanese rituals and craftsmanship, the bathtub is a perfect enhancement to the pared-down aesthetic. (Image source: Terje Arntsen)

The open floor plan of the villa creates fluid connections between the living areas – between the bathroom and bedroom too. (Image source: Terje Arntsen)

Each bedroom has its own bathroom where the Zencha above-counter basin with matching vanity unit in White creates a gentle contrast to the wall and floor coverings in light beige by the stucco plasterwork expert Odilon Creations. (Image source: Terje Arntsen)