The three Uni Villas that Studio Puisto Architects designed in collaboration with nature tourism entrepreneur Kari Vainio are wrapped in vertical cross-laminated timber that blends with the wooded Finnish landscape. “The cladding is treated with a breathable and ecological dark oil stain that creates uniformity with the environment,” says architect Sami Logren.

In devising the prefabricated modular villas in Finland’s Kytäjä Golf area, Studio Puisto Architects and Vainio realized a long-standing aspiration. “It was our dream to make it easier for anyone and everyone to access nature in a sustainable way,” Logren says. As such, the team decided to employ uni—the Finnish word for “dream”—for the name of the modular villas, as well as the eponymous micro resort.

Each 1,205-square foot Uni Villa contains two studio units and a larger suite, which join together to form a U-shape. According to Logren, this layout creates a more compact footprint, and also helps to prioritize guests’ privacy, as well as in-room views of the surrounding lakefront. “The shape allows each unit to have a private view from the outdoor terrace or balcony,” the architect says. “It’s also quite effective when it comes to land use.”

Each unit was prefabricated off-site, then transported on the back of a standard truck and delivered to the site with ready-made furniture. The architects’ goal for the Uni Villas was to provide accessibility to nature without disrupting it. “Sustainability and a low environmental impact are key values in our design process,” Logren says. “These values correlate with the current state of how people want to connect with nature to gain calm.”

In an effort to facilitate a soothing atmosphere, the interiors are decked with rich textures and a subdued palette. In the studio units, light-toned natural wood finishes provide a fresh aesthetic, while darker wood tones and textiles provide a feeling of warmth in the suites. Gray tiles with a stone-like, matte finish lend a sense of serenity in the bathrooms.

“Nature and well-being are key elements in all of our designs,” Logren explains. “Above all, we wanted to create a design that fits with its surroundings in a harmonious way.”

“Stepping inside a Uni Villa is like entering your own cozy hut with complete privacy and magnificent views,” the architect continues. “The villas can also function as a tiny village where families and groups can spend quality time together.”

To inquire about booking a stay at the Uni Villas, please visit the Uni Resorts website.

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Project Credits:

Architect of Record: Willem van Bolderen, Studio Puisto Architects / @studiopuisto

Builder/General Contractor: Kari Vainio, Uni Development Oy

Interior Design: Studio Puisto Architects / @studiopuisto

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A Remote Micro Resort in Finland Comprises a Trio of Timber-Clad Prefab Villas