Naturum Tjurpannan Ocean plastic exhibition center and storm shelter

Abstract

Tjurpannan Nature Reserve holds a distinctive beauty thanks to its special bedrock with a characteristic pink tone, shaped in a sculptural softness through the ice age thousands of years ago. In this landscape one can find historical examples of great talent for fitting the buildings into its surroundings. This is also an outstanding place to observe the unique spectacle of the storm, but when the storm settles the great threat of ocean plastic is revealed in this beautiful landscape. The idea behind this master’s thesis is to challenge the notion of conventional building methods and explore how the philosophy of a light footprint could be expressed through new designs in this iconic landscape. Focus will be put on exploring the question: How will a light footprint shape the buildings and their overall appearance within its surrounding landscape of Tjurpannan? In order to answer that question, the methods “research for design” and “research by design” have been used through an iterative design process. The result is showcased in the final design of an ocean plastic exhibition center and a storm lookout, where careful consideration is taken to the conditions of each site. Several influences are interwoven such as topography, the character of the landscape and a special emphasis on how the new buildings touch the ground. Architectural drawings, illustrations and physical models are used to showcase the final designs in a wide range of scales to approach the built reality. In conclusion, we believe this Master’s thesis can contribute to the discourse on the importance of place and show how architecture can act as a translator to let the context be part of the project. Along with how the philosophy of a light footprint can ensure the landscape is protected for future generations as well as be a significant part of the overall design.