When builder and designer Martin Lydén first started work on Villa Svartgarn – a private home situated 30 minutes from central Stockholm – he lacked a client and a commission. “It began as an experiment to examine how we best can build a new house without the toxics found in building materials and the use of plastic,” he recalls of the project.

At Villa Svartgarn, this sustainable approach translated to a home constructed entirely of natural materials that could be repaired and maintained. Collaborating with architect Daniel Widman, the duo designed a restful, minimalist space that pays homage to a rich lineage of traditional craftsmanship even as it caters to modern life. The walls, ceilings, and floor were mostly built from Swedish spruce, which was treated with a traditional mix of beeswax mixed with linseed oil – a local recipe that dates back to the 15th century.

In the kitchen, massive Swedish oak was used for its strength and sustainability credentials, while local limestone was placed in the bathroom. “I mostly get inspired by the simple, often old shapes of traditional buildings in Sweden,” says Lydén, who began his career restoring historic homes. “It’s their simplicity, the cleverness of the construction, and the knowledge of local materials.”

In the kitchen, Hans J. Wegner’s CH24 Wishbone Chairs in oak were selected as a natural fit for the custom-built dining table. “The CH24 represents the best possible combination of wood craftsmanship and timeless design,” says Lydén. “They represent a time when carpenters were also the designers – and I think that’s something we can learn from.”