High on a hill overlooking the Kristiansand Fjord, the Birdhouse is a home with a story as unique as its design. Built in 1979 by architect Jan P. Kristiansen, the house is now lovingly cared for by Susanne Lende, Kristian Arntsen, and their daughters, Aurora and Hannah. Named for the bird life that fills its surroundings and the decorative seagulls adorning its façade, the Birdhouse stands out with its distinct architecture, blending Japanese and mid-century influences in a timeless expression.
When Susanne and Kristian moved back to Kristiansand after 20 years in Oslo, they searched for a home that could reflect their values of sustainability and reuse. Despite its need for significant rehabilitation, the Birdhouse won them over with its thoughtful layout, robust materials, and seamless connection to its natural surroundings.
The multi-level design appealed to Susanne, who had lived in North America and appreciated the split-level concept. The home’s windows and light-filled spaces further reinforced their decision, creating an environment that feels alive throughout the day.
A defining feature of the house is its fireplace, which sparks strong opinions among visitors. Designed by Kristiansen and inspired by the form of a pregnant belly, the fireplace is painted in Jotun’s muted apricot shade, Devine. Susanne sees it as a symbol of the home’s balance between feminine and masculine elements.
The décor throughout emphasises natural materials like wood, wool, and rattan, complemented by an earthy palette of greens, terracotta, and cognac. Green plants enhance the organic feel, connecting the interiors to the lush landscape outside.
The renovation focused on preserving the house’s original character while updating it for modern living. With the help of Miriam Brenne Karlsen of OsloDeco and architect Renate Alexandersen, the family carefully restored features like the clinker tile flooring and linen wallpaper, integrating new elements in harmony with the original design.
Updates include a new kitchen with solid oak fronts, a Taj Mahal quartzite countertop, and sustainable materials throughout. The light-filled kitchen and dining area flow seamlessly into the living room, where expansive windows bring the outdoors inside.
Bedrooms were refreshed to align with the house’s character, including the master bedroom with direct garden access. The main bathroom was completely renovated, maintaining continuity with oak cabinetry and natural stone finishes. Sustainability was a key focus throughout, from reusing original materials to installing modern energy-efficient solutions.
For Susanne, the Birdhouse represents more than a home—it’s a canvas for ideas she’s dreamed of for years. She describes it as a space filled with love and life, where her family creates new memories every day. Looking forward, the family hopes their choices will stand the test of time, allowing the Birdhouse to remain a cherished haven for decades to come.
