Trollstua Huset
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Our client, a single university professor, purchased a small property on the banks of a tidal river in Brunswick, Maine, which included a neglected, cramped, and decomposing ranch house.
Trollstua (Troll's Den) - a Norwegian reference.
Modest and Energy-Efficient Camp
The project involved tearing down an existing neglected ranch on a small property along a tidal river in Brunswick, Maine. The client, a single university professor, aimed to create a modest, bright, comfortable, and energy-efficient year-round camp that would maximize the natural beauty of the site while staying within a tight budget.
Carefully Crafted Woodwork
Almost all interior and exterior finishes were sourced from local mills and quarries, aligning with the green spirit of the house while keeping costs low. The scale of the finishes was deliberately exaggerated to emphasize the strong connection between the small structure and its natural surroundings. The carefully crafted woodwork was completed at a reasonable price, adding to the home’s Scandinavian-inspired charm.
Innovative Roof for Light and Views
Due to strict zoning constraints, a traditional gabled roof was not an option, as it would have exceeded the allowable volume. Instead, the design featured a warped flat roof that lays low at the private end of the house and twists upward toward the water views and living spaces. This innovative roof design maximizes natural light and enhances the connection to the surroundings. The planted roof, blending seamlessly with the site, further integrates the structure with its environment while offering practical benefits like reducing runoff and boosting insulation.
Zoning Limits and Roof Innovation
The project faced challenges due to zoning constraints that limited the volume of the new structure. The design team had to creatively navigate these restrictions, resulting in the innovative warped roof design. Additionally, with few precedents for planted roofs in Maine, the team had to figure out the best approach as they went along, which ultimately led to a successful and practical solution.
The Results
The completed camp is a modest yet bright and comfortable dwelling that perfectly fits the natural beauty of its tidal river site. The innovative roof design, coupled with the planted roof, enhances the home’s energy efficiency and connection to the environment. The use of locally sourced materials and the Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic create a unique and inviting space that the client can enjoy year-round.
