Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Architecture and Design – Norway
Photo: Sindre Ellingsen
A story of love, a treehouse and being close to nature The story of Woodnest is a true love story. Almost from the moment Kjartan set eyes on Sally, he knew that he wanted to build her a treehouse to propose in. Fast forward a few years, and the couple are happily married. And the treehouse? Well, that has turned into Woodnest, and now everyone can have their own little fairytale in the most magical surroundings in the small Norwegian town of Odda. By Heidi Kokborg
Nestled between two of Norway’s largest national parks, Hardangervidda and Folgefonna in Odda, you’ll find Woodnest. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of city life, it offers a magical experience. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while enjoying breathtaking views of the fjord, taking a hot shower surrounded by nature in a treehouse – and no need to leave the nest, because all your comfort and adventure is right there, within the 15 square metres, five metres above the ground. “From the intricate details of the outward structure to running your fingers 44 | Issue 136 | November 2021
along the fine woodwork interior, and of course the stunning views, we want our guests to gasp, ’Wow!’,” enthuse Kjartan and Sally Aano, the owners of Woodnest. “Together with Norwegian architects Helen & Hard, we put great effort and attention to detail into making these treehouses one-of-a-kind designs in authenticity and originality.” But despite being in the middle of wild nature, this is far from a camping experience. In fact, you will enjoy a high level of comfort. Take a relaxing, warm shower, use a normal flushing toilet, brew a fresh cup of coffee and cook your dinner
in the small kitchenette – all this, up in one tree top. “For us, it is about sharing this love for a childhood dream of a treehouse with others and giving them an experience that will last a lifetime,” says Sally Aano. A proposal turned small family business As if the architecture, the magnificent views overlooking the fjord, and the pure experience in itself of staying in a treehouse were not enough, the story of Woodnest is one filled with the kind of love that will touch even the most unromantic of hearts. Kjartan and Sally Aano met at a wedding in Australia. Kjartan had never been to Australia before, and he only spent three weeks there. When he saw Sally at the wedding dinner, he couldn’t take his eyes off her. The groom noticed this, and he made sure that the two of them got to
