Some nine years ago, a cyclone destroyed the Norwegian tourist hut Tungestølen, which had served as a shelter for mountain hikers for more than a century. Snøhetta provided replacement with a cluster of huts shaped to withstand stormy winds with confidence.
Snøhetta was commissioned by the Norwegian National Trekking Association to design the Tungestølen project. Located on a small plateau overlooking the Jostedalen glacier, the project will eventually consist of nine huts, three of which have been completed so far.
The main cabin contains a communal dining room with large dining tables and a stone fireplace. Nearby is a dormitory for 30 people, as well as another smaller private hut. The furnishings are simple and understated.
The unusual appearance of the huts not only makes them stand out, but also serves a practical purpose: their shape is designed to mitigate the effects of strong winds in the area. For the design, Snøhetta used specialised wind analysis software on a 3D model. In addition, wind experts were consulted during the design process.
With the havoc of the original Tungestølen tourist hut fresh in their minds, Snøhetta designed a new constellation of nine sturdy pentagonal and angled cabins, made of glued wood laminate frames finished with slabs of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and clad in pine. The outward-facing walls of the cabins have been given a beak-like shape to slow down wind rising from the valley. The interior is striking with its playful shape and features panoramic windows that give views of the mountains and valleys. The view and the incoming light have a calming effect. So those who have not yet booked their summer holidays can head up to the far north.
