Sep 3, 2013 9:30 AM

Gallery: This Seaweed-Covered House Is the World's Coziest Sushi Roll

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This cute cottage is completely covered in seaweed. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*
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The ceiling panels are filled with seaweed, wrapped in linen, and mounted on MDF boards prior to installation. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*

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One material, two very different styles, both uniquely Danish. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*
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The primary challenge for the designers was turning an unruly weed into a consistent building material, a feat achieved by stuffing the material into a tubular net. Underneath the seaweed pillows the facade walls are prefab timberframe panels clad with OSB on both sides and covered with tar felt. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*

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Realdania, the philanthropic group that funded the construction of the New Seaweed House is focused on preserving Danish architecture and providing funding for new construction based on cultural identity. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*
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The interior is paneled with softwood boards wiped with white soap. The steep roof helps drain water effectively, but also creates extra space for visitors to sleep. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*

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The clean lines, natural materials, and wide open spaces are hallmarks of Scandinavian design. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*
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Seaweed is a surprisingly durable material, though left unchecked, small trees will lay roots in the thatched roof. After a year of exposure, the pillows take on the silvery colors of the local pine trees. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*

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The house will be available for rent during the summer months—a perfect listing for Airbnb. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*
(Non-artist's rendering: Greg Miller)
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Skylights help reduce the energy burden of the home. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*

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The seaweed pillows give the building its unique texture, but traditional building materials keep the structure water tight. The pillows and exterior walls are expected to last 20 years—longer than some asphalt shingles. *Photo: Helene Høyer Mikkelsen/Realdania Byg*

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