Houseboat in Sweden's Wilderness
One way to have total comfort and seclusion while floating on water.
In the heart of a Swedish nature reserve, Raven is a project designed to offer an immersive experience on the water. Floating on Lake Navardalen, this compact 47-square-meter (500-square-feet) houseboat provides a retreat where you can completely disconnect from modern distractions (no wifi, no cellular service) and engage with vast wilderness enveloping you.
It’s the vision of Lina Karlsson, the founder of various projects to promote digital-free retreats in nature. With a background in hospitality and a deep personal connection to the Swedish wilderness, Lina has spent years curating experiences that encourage guests to step away from technology and engage with the natural world. The idea for Raven emerged from her time spent on the lake, recognizing that the water held a unique sense of calm and renewal. Working with a team of local builders and craftsmen, she brought the concept to life, ensuring that the structure remained both practical and inviting.
Raven’s defining feature is its placement on the water. The glass-walled bedroom offering panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding spruce forests. A rooftop terrace extends the living area outdoors, featuring an open kitchen, a seating area, and a wood-fired sauna.
Inside, the houseboat is designed for comfort and efficiency. A wood-burning stove provides warmth, an incineration toilet and running water ensure essential amenities without reliance on conventional infrastructure. A small rowboat moored alongside allows guests to explore the lake at their own pace.
Raven is not a remote wilderness cabin, but rather an experience designed to immerse guests in the landscape without sacrificing comfort. It exemplifies a contemporary approach to nature retreats, where architectural choices enhance rather than compete with the surroundings.