The Tverrfjellhyttan by Snohetta

— Architects are often asked to create a design that responds to the context of the surroundings. If it wasn't obvious, the Tverrfjellhytta by Snøhetta responds to a place of natural legend, a mountain range which is home to one of the last roaming areas for wild reindeer in Europe.

The Dovre Mountains in Norway are a major source of national legends, myths, poetry and music, all of which celebrate the mysticism of this significant place. The Tverrfjellhytta by Snøhetta, an Oslo based architecture firm, is in fact a wildlife observation centre.

The design is based on a creating a rigid outer shell to withstand the difficult climate, and an organic inner core composed of pine timber beams. Respecting local building traditions while embracing technological advances, Norwegian shipbuilders used 3D design tools to cut the pine timber into the organic seating area, all of which are held together using only pegs as the traditional fasteners.

The organic seating area and fireplace helps to create a unique viewing experience, providing a space for visitor’s to contemplate the spectacular panorama.

The physical design of the centre clearly takes cues from the materiality of the natural surroundings, but the spirit behind the design matches the area’s significance in the consciousness of Norwegians. What’s that sound you ask? That’s just me giving Snøhetta a one-man standing ovation.