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Fika
Hem
Rooted in the Swedish ritual of Fika, a daily act of
connection and pause ,the design reflects a family
whose values revolve around togetherness, reflection,
and shared meaning. More than a coffee break, Fika
symbolizes balance between community and solitude,shaping the home’s spatial and emotional rhythm.
The ground floor embodies connection through open,
double-height spaces that encourage interaction,
visibility, and inclusivity for all family members, while
the upper level transitions into personal rooms —
calm retreats designed for reading, reflection, and
individuality. Warm textures, natural light, and soft
contrasts translate the spirit of Fika into architecture,
creating a home that nurtures collective moments,
personal growth, and emotional warmth.
Site - Residential Compound - Doha, Qatar
Conceptual Narrative
Crossing into stillness via fratsu, the home
opens with warmth, inviting pause from the
outside world.
Moments of togetherness, conversation, and light flow through open kitchen and living.
Target Users - Swedish Family of four, with different hobbies, professions and disabilities.
The lift and stairs mark a gentle shift, from
connection below to personal pause above.
Each finds rhythm in routine, reflection,
creativity, and comfort intertwine upstairs.
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The living room is designed as a double-height space to maximize natural sunlight and create a strong visual connection between the ground and first floors. Acting as the main family gathering area, it brings everyone together to share conversations around their mutual interests in folklore and tradition. The openness of the space also allows for inclusivity, where their son, who uses a wheelchair, can comfortably engage and showcase his passion for movies and filmmaking. The materiality draws from Swedish design, using soft textures, light timber, and warm neutral tones to create a cozy atmosphere. This warmth contrasts the climate of Doha while subtly reconnecting the family to the familiar feeling of Sweden, making the space feel both comforting and personal.
Parent's Shared Office
Living Room
The parents’ shared office is designed as a calm and collaborative workspace that reflects both their professions and shared interests. The father, a travel writer, and the mother, a therapist, use the space for both focused work and quiet reflection, with areas that support writing, reading, and conversation. The design incorporates warm timber finishes, soft textiles, and muted green tones inspired by Swedish interiors, creating a sense of comfort and focus. Subtle references to folklore are integrated through materiality and decor, allowing the space to feel personal while maintaining a professional and serene atmosphere.
Spatial Layout & Experiences
Fika Corner
The Fika corner, located on the first floor, offers a more private and intimate retreat within the home. Inspired by the Swedish concept of fika—a moment to pause, reflect, and reconnect—the space is designed to be flexible, allowing each family member to interpret and use it in their own way for comfort and privacy. Biophilic elements are integrated throughout, symbolizing a strong connection to nature, which is central to Swedish culture. The use of built-in stone seating adds a grounded, tactile quality, creating a subtle outdoor feeling while remaining indoors, enhancing both comfort and calmness.
Son's Bedroom
The son’s bedroom is designed with accessibility and independence at its core, ensuring ample space for wheelchair movement and comfortable turning radii throughout. Storage is strategically placed along walls and in corners to keep the central area open and uncluttered. His passion for movies and filmmaking is expressed through the interior, with subtle visual references and a dedicated workspace that supports his creative interests. At the same time, the room maintains a Scandinavian aesthetic, using clean lines, warm wood tones, and a balanced color palette to create a space that feels both functional and personal.
Vertical Connection
