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steal attention. This birdwatching tower may be visited by many
people at the same time. Some for a glimpse, others for a night.
Does architecture matter? Sure, but how much? Nature
gives me my favorite spaces, while some of my best times
indoor has been in less esthetical spaces. Architecture is involved
in providing for basic needs, but it doesn’t have to involve a
beautiful space. I’m not arguing for sloppy handcraft or ugly
buildings, rather for simplification of problems to free time for
living. Every problem doesn’t have a built answer. Keeping focus
on all aspects of life simultaneously is crucial.
PRIMARY SITE FORCES
Norway is a cold place. Wind sucks away energy from our
bodies. There is no need for total weather protection, but the
bird watcher will be satisfied with a roof and a shelter from the
main western winds. The tower is elevated as much as possible
without reaching the tree crowns which would block the view.
Sitting right beneath the oscilating trees, onlooking the marsh
can be a calm experience. The view from the tower to the
northeast to allow for the best light possible for afternoon bird
watching.
SPATIAL STRATEGIES
This is a place to look at birds, the best view is provided from an
elevated space. You won’t see the view before reaching the end,
as when climbing a tree, finally arriving at the new angle to the
landscape.
The spaces of movement to the point of lookout has a different
light than the lookout. More open and light, behind a cloth. Hid
from the birds, but not for the light.
The lookout rooms have low roofs to create a safe, cave
like space. Nature is open, while a human seeking shelter seeks
the opposite.
STRUCTURE AND FEELINGS FOR WOOD
Wood has potential to be fantastic. It can be extremely long
lasting, can be strong and has an incredibly varied natural
esthetic . What is even better is that wood is alive, it changes
and interacts with it ́
s surroundings. It can be turned into an
endless array of shapes using only simple tools.
The log structures are roofed to ensure a structural
longevity. The wooden elements assembled are based on a
traditional way of constructing. I like architects who respect the
old tradition of wood while being able to bring new ideas into it.
Why throw away everything old, thinking it is boring. I believing
in learning from the old joining with the new and fusing it with a
simpleness that comes from understanding.
Wood warms me. Surfaces shouldn ́
t be treated with
unnecessary coatings but should be planned to be smooth if
it is to be touched. But should all surfaces be neat? How do
we know a comfortable surface if we never touched a surface
uncomfortable cold and rough?