In the harbour of Copenhagen, a striking 140m² floating house has taken residence on the Danish island of Dokøen. The two-storey structure belongs to Søren Hvalsøe Garde, founder of the bespoke furniture brand Garde Hvalsøe, and was developed in collaboration with architect Anders Halsteen.
© Birgitta Wolfgang | Archilovers
Prefabricated in Poland and later transported to Denmark, the house blends traditional domestic functions with maritime innovation. Inspired by a floating home purchased for his son, Søren sought a similarly mobile, flexible lifestyle. The design features large sliding glass doors, layered terraces, and minimalist interiors crafted with Garde Hvalsøe's signature materials, including finely grained woods and finger-jointed drawers.
Bespoke interior solutions abound, from staircases and entry furnishings to a centrepiece kitchen with a Quarzite Breccia Imperiale worktop. Brass details throughout, including in the bathrooms and kitchen, offer contrast and natural patina. A wine cellar in fine oak uses a water-cooled underfloor system, showcasing a union of utility and elegance.
The house includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a cellar. One standout feature is a terrace 10 cm below the waterline, where a ladder offers direct access to the sea for swimming. Eco-conscious choices include seawater underfloor heating and energy-efficient lighting housed in custom-made iron arms.
© Birgitta Wolfgang | Archilovers
The first floor is finished in Dinesen oak, while concrete covers the lower level, aligning with the couple's desire to maximise shared spaces over private ones. The outdoor area features a dining table by Børge Mogensen and Italian chairs, reflecting their commitment to functional, timeless design.
Søren described the project as a continuation of his design ethos: 'I love the process of creating something new and starting from scratch and getting everything exactly the way you want it.'
© Birgitta Wolfgang | Archilovers
Source: www.archiportale.com