Situated in the picturesque town of Skagen in the northernmost tip of Denmark, Skagen Klitgaard Beach House is a testament to respect for architecture, family unity and seamless integration with the natural environment. Designed by PAX Architects, this stunning retreat draws inspiration from Skagen’s Black Period and incorporates the historic use of burnt shipwreck wood in its distinctive exterior and thatched roof.
Designer: PAX Architects
The exterior of Skagen Klitgaard Beach House pays homage to Skagen’s historical heritage. The black painted timber exterior and thatched roof recall the charm of homes built during the Black Era, when charred wood from shipwrecks was a common building material. This architectural choice creates a connection to the town’s history while establishing the house as a visual treat to the coastal landscape.
The architectural concept revolves around the central theme of fostering unity among the three generations of residents in particular. The home is designed to accommodate a variety of needs, from communal gatherings in the centrally located kitchen to more secluded areas for solitude. Although the uses of each space are diverse, the continuous pitched roof unifies the entire house and emphasizes that it is “under one roof.”
Special attention is paid to inclusivity within the Beach House. The architects incorporated acoustic ceilings to reduce noise levels, creating an environment suitable for both family living and a personal retreat. Fluid zones within the layout allow for visual connections between different areas while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
The kitchen is placed at the center of the house, valuing family mealtimes. Thick oak mullions frame large glass panels, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design choice not only blurs boundaries but also brings indoor landscape beauty and enhances the overall living experience.
In order to meet the diverse needs of residents, the ceiling height is varied for each space. Lowering the ceilings in intimate zones, such as the function room behind the kitchen, creates a contrast with the open social areas and brings different atmospheres into the house.
The interior design blends into the natural environment with muted colors and extensive use of sustainable Douglas fir. The touch, aroma and pleasant sounds of wood perfectly match the vision of a home that is an integral part of the natural environment, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Our collaboration with Danish company Dinesen reflects our commitment to quality and precision. The architects responsibly sourced wood from forests in France and Germany to create a home that is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also sustainable and long-lasting.
