This report presents a proposal for a new cabin complex in Tungestølen Norway. The project takes its point of departure, in an investigation of how sustainability is interpreted in a Nordic context, but also points out some contemporary issues, relating to the subject. The design proposes a different solution to the issue of sustainability. It is not a proposal that is made to serve as a general example, when building sustainable, but a proposal that is meant to make people more aware on their impact on nature.

The site is situated down a valley created by Jostedalsbreen, the largest glacier in continental Europe. The landscape is characterized by its rough nature, placed with in a deep cut valley, enclosed by mountainsides, where small steams run down to create larger fjords. The wind is rough, and the winter’s cold. Building here have therefore always been on the premise of nature.

The user group are usually hikers, however an increasing number of tourists is coming to experience the dramatic landscape of Tungestølen. They are a user group that spend all day in nature, wishing to sense, and to interact with it. When they return, they wish to return to a safe and protected space where they can retreat and recharge for a new and challenging outside. The report suggest a design that is built within the mountain, and thereby protecting the users from the wind and weather.

The design proposal, suggest a solution, where several volumes, built into the mountain, will be connected by a mountain corridor. The volumes will be characterized, as being well defined, volumes protected by the strength of the mountain, and accommodated by the wooden interior. These will be contrasted by a rough and cold corridor, that will provide an undefined and mysterious space, only lit by skylights. This space will emphasize the atmosphere within the volumes.

To emphasize the experience the visitors seek, when visiting Tungestølen, the complex will be functioning without any form of connection to a grid. The heating demand will be meet by burning wood, and domestic water for both showering and cooking, will be collected in a water tank. Light and ventilation will be natural. This causes the users to sense themselves, and take action, to obtain comfort, reinforcing the experience of the site.
By living on the premise of nature, and by taking away basic functions, the traveler in his everyday life takes for granted, he will become more aware upon his basic needs. The complex teaches the users to appreciate and respect the nature, to best possible preserve it in the future.