Crafting Dreams in Timber and Snow: A Conversation with Matīss, KM Building’s Master Carpenter and Crew Leader
Interview by KM Building Editorial Team
In the world of handcrafted timber homes, where precision meets passion, few people embody the spirit of craftsmanship as deeply as Matīss. As the construction crew leader at KM Building, he’s been shaping Nordic landscapes one log cabin at a time for over a decade. We sat down with Matīss to hear about his journey, the magic of mountain homes and the pride that comes with turning raw timber into someone’s dream retreat.
Matīss, how did your journey with KM Building begin?
Ten years ago, I responded to a job advertisement for a carpenter position at KM Building. I wasn’t new to the trade – I had a diploma in carpentry and some practical experience under my belt. My first projects with the company took me to Norway, and right from those early trips, I was hooked. High-quality wooden houses in breathtaking locations – it was everything I imagined and more.
Over the years, I’ve grown tremendously, both personally and professionally. I’ve acquired new skills, tackled challenges and reached a point where I can confidently call myself a master craftsman. It’s been a decade of learning, building and leading – and I still wake up excited for the next project.
What does a typical day look like for you, and what part of your work brings you the most joy?
My days are a mix of planning, teamwork, hands-on carpentry and client communication on construction site. I work closely with my crew to ensure everything runs smoothly – assigning tasks, solving problems and making sure we stick to the timeline without compromising quality.
What I love most is being on-site. It keeps me close to the heart of the build. Even though I’m in a leadership role, I still roll up my sleeves and pick up tools when needed. That balance – between guiding a team and staying connected to the craftsmanship – is where I find the most satisfaction. And at the end of the day, seeing a home take shape from our skilled hands? That’s a feeling that never gets old.
KM Building is known for its high-quality cabins in some of the most beautiful parts of Norway and Sweden. How does it feel to see one of your finished homes standing in the mountains?
There’s something almost magical about it. Each place has its own charm, whether it’s nestled among snowy peaks or perched beside a mountain lake. When you step into a newly completed cabin, the first feeling is always peace and coziness. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that what we’ve built will become a place where families gather, where memories are made.
I genuinely hope that the people who move into our homes feel that same sense of comfort and belonging. That’s what we strive for with every project.
Is there one project that stands out in your memory more than the others?
There are quite a few close to my heart, but one that really stands out is my first stavlaft build in Beitostølen in 2016. The location itself is unforgettable – snow piled over car roofs, winding trails and striking mountain views. The house had a complex structure that challenged even our most experienced craftsmen. It was tough, but the result was stunning. That cabin fits into the landscape as if it has always belonged there. It’s still one of my proudest moments.
Another memorable project was a spacious and cozy home we built for a client named Christian in Idre, Himmelfjäll. The attention to detail, the high quality and the warmth of the client made the whole process a pleasure. Christian was the kind of client you dream of working with – friendly, appreciative and involved in a really positive way. Those are the kinds of collaborations that stay with you.
Finally, what keeps you motivated after all these years?
It’s simple: the love of building. Every cabin is different, every location brings a new challenge and every client has a unique vision. I’m proud to be part of a team that wants to learn and grow. KM Building isn’t just about constructing houses – we’re helping people create lasting spaces for their lives. That’s something worth getting up for every morning.
From snowy mountaintops to the skilled hands that build beneath them, Matīss is one of the driving forces behind KM Building’s legacy of craftsmanship. His story is a testament to growth, passion and the quiet pride that comes from building not just homes – but dreams.
