Villa Koppar | Collaboratorio

Nestled amidst rugged exposed rocks and bucolic landscapes lies Villa Koppar, a fully ecological, geothermically heated passive house, constructed from prefabricated straw elements. The building was designed for a young and growing family with a limited budget – a prerequisite combined with ambitious ecological targets and stunning natural surroundings formed the basis for the architecture.

Ecological and economic characters are supported by meticulous ideology directing the design process. The monolithic straw element (EcoCocon) being physically robust and fault-tolerant provides an excellent thermal insulation. At the same time, the considerable thickness of the straw elements (40 cm) naturally creates opportunities to integrate features such as deep window reveals as part of the interior space.

Simplistic yet durable and easy-to-maintain materials, primarily wood and clay, are utilized indoors. The thick clay plaster balances indoor humidity and temperature over the course of the day, helping to create a more stable indoor climate. The clay plaster continues seamlessly from the walls onto the ceiling surfaces, emphasizing the harmony of the space. The floor structures in the two-story building are both constructed using rammed earth (Luonnonbetoni).

The compact composition consists of a main house and an outbuilding that accommodates a workspace, a small fitness room, and a carport. In the main house, all common spaces are on the upper floor, opening expansive views over the surrounding fields and rocky landscape while extending outdoor living onto the adjacent rock outcrop.

This serene and exquisite nest is the outcome of thorough orchestration and close collaboration with the special clients, also marking an inception of a friendship.

Lead Architects: Kristiina Kuusiluoma, Martino De Rossi

Photography: Simone Bossi and Niclas Mäkelä