Glass and steel, wood and stone. Man-made and natural materials come together to create Casa G, a home in Iceland that manages to be dark and gritty yet bright and airy. And it’s all thanks to the bold imagination of architect Gudmundur Jonsson.
Iceland is known for its dramatic landscape that is both beautiful and hostile. Taking inspiration from the volcanic ash of the land, lush rolling hills, snow-capped icebergs, and the Aurora Borealis, Jonsson created a home that is equally as dramatic.
If ever a home could be called “moody,” Casa G is it. The look and feel of the space can change in an instant depending on the time of day and the weather outside. From sun-filled rooms during the day thanks to two-story walls of glass to soft lighting reminiscent of the northern lights at night, Casa G seems like an ever-changing space.
The drama of Casa G doesn’t end with the atmosphere. When designing the holiday home, Jonsson turned one of the walls into a swooping piece of art. The wood-clad outer wall curves and appears to lean against the rest of the home, seemingly supported by the glass and steel structure. This wall offers protection from harsh winds while creating a stunning focal point inside. A window cut into the wood creates a perfect seating area for looking out to the stunning vistas. In the evening, inset lighting in the floor and ceiling shine down onto the angled wall.
Inside, Casa G is decked out in a color palette reflective of its surroundings. The natural wood wall adds warmth to the space while white ceilings represent the snow and dark gray stone flooring on the first floor matches the rocky mountains that can be seen from the back of the home. Furnishings are also grey and the kitchen features a combination of gray and mirrored cabinetry. In the open plan family room, a fireplace is set into the glass wall and includes a glass backing which allows the fire to be enjoyed from both the seating area and the outside patio.
The second floor, which overlooks the first-floor family room, is accessed via a bluestone staircase and features glass railings. White walls offer privacy for the bedrooms and bathrooms. The master bedroom has a private balcony for relaxing outside and taking in the views, which includes a creek that runs along the property.
Every time you turn around, Casa G appears to have changed. It’s a dynamic space that perfectly matches the Icelandic landscape.
But the country isn’t just home to stunning architecture. Check out our tips for planning a drive along the dramatically scenic Ring Road.
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