This project has been developed from an architectural design studio at the Harvard Graduate School of Design, led by Rok Oman and Spela Videcnik from OFIS. 13 students were facing the challenges of designing an innovative yet practical shelter to meet the needs of the extreme alpine climate. Inspired by the vernacular architecture of Slovenia with its rich and diverse architectural heritage, the selected bivak also responses to the harsh conditions of wind, snow, landslides and terrain.
Among all entries one design was selected to be realised on Mountain Skuta in Slovenia. For the outer shell the architects have chosen öko skin, as the concrete slats withstand extreme mountain conditions and offer long-term resistance. Concrete is a sustainable material which embodies durability and fire resistance (class A1 – incombustible). öko skin consists of natural materials and its authentic appearance corresponds with surrounding landscape and mountains. The silvergrey colour and the sandblasted surface of the facade are in harmony with the barren mountain landscape.
The alpine shelter is located on Mountain Skuta in Slovenia. Its position within the wilderness respects the natural resources while having a minimal impact on the ground.
Architect:
OFIS architects (Rok Oman, Spela Videcnik) + Student team of Harvard GSD
Product Information:öko skin facade
silvergrey
Year 2015
Work started in 2014
Work finished in 2015
Status Completed works
Type Country houses/cottages / Tourist Facilities / Chalets, Mountains houses / Refuges
