Fra Innersida was contacted by the Norwegian Road Administration, region North, regarding the development of open campfire shelters for the rest area by the new Tana bridge. Fra Innersida had already designed open campfire shelters for other landscape projects, but the one for Tana bridge needed to implement universal design, integrated lighting and storage for firewood.
The construction is inspired by the existing shelters in the area, which were shaped like a semicircle and had wooden roofs that could resemble the shape of the Sami lavvo. The challenge was not to change too much of the basic shape and rafter construction, as this had already been calculated and approved for strength. Fra Innersida continued to work with the roof elements to see if it was possible to create a shelter for the firewood by extending the roof elements and, at the same time, keeping in mind the old shelters and the new bridge.
The end result has roof elements that extend over the wall in an asymmetrical arch. This solution gives a roof that almost winds around the wall of the semi-circle and gives the building an asymmetrical feel that fits in nicely with the bridge structure.
The foundation is cast as a ring wall. The front is step-free and accessible for wheelchair users, prams and those who are not so steady.
The semi-circular shape creates an arena for togetherness and conversation. A bench is mounted on support struts in front, which allows for a larger group to sit together regardless of whether you are inside or outside.
Ly is built in Siberian larch, which is an extremely strong and dense wood with a long durability, which is important in a dry and cold climate such as Tana. The material is maintenance-free and will turn naturally silver-gray over time.
Photocredit: @Árvu