Hankø is a remote island on the east coast of Norway. This community was only recently connected to the public water and sewerage system. The island’s authorities, who take conservation seriously, approved the building of the bathhouse on the condition that it be no larger than 10 m2 (107 feet), and that it would not have an adverse impact on its naturalsurroundings. Meticulous planning was crucial; we placed the bathhouse at the rear of an existing cabin from the 1900’s, between three pine trees.
The use of wood in the buildings structure and skin allows for a light weight and adaptable build that can be mounted on stilts and the structure is supported by six columns which were strategically positioned to help prevent damage to the roots of the three trees.
The exterior is clad in Kebony wood, developed in Norway using an eco-friendly, patented process where softwood is permanently strengthened with bio-based liquid obtained from agricultural crop waste. To fit the natural curves of the landscape the cladding was heated and pressurized so that the wood would bend and create the desired curvature. Leaving it untreated will allow for a natural color change that over time will ‘naturalize’ the look of the bathhouse and harmonizes with the bark of the surrounding pine trees.
The interior of the bathhouse is fitted with waxed red oak and deep green-colored, built-in-furniture made out of MDF, that mimics the shades of the surrounding pines.
The hygroscopic properties of wood make it a material well suited for dealing with shifts in humidity and temperature. Its thermal qualities mean it is warm to human touch yet does not overheat and is resilient and durable to the stress of a hot and moist environment. Psychologically and physiologically it also elicits feelings of comfort and relaxation. In other words, wood is an ideal material choice for a bath facility.
The bathhouse position in between the trees makes for an intimate connection with its natural surroundings. This is further emphasizedby a glass ceiling, fitted across the entire top of the structure, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior while offering the bather stunning views of the forest above.
What was the brief?
What were the key challenges?
What materials did you choose and why?
In addition to the points mentioned above; Oslotre is an architectural practice and timber consultancy specializing in timber design and constructions. The practice offers a full range of architectural and consulting services for design, production and construction of timber structures. Oslotre has more than ten years of experience with timber architecture on different scales and typologies, and a background from solid wood (CLT) production. Oslotres team of architects, engineers and carpenters has fostered an environmental consciousness and commitment to designing and building for the future and for the planet. The practice has a holistic approach to architecture and seeks to build natural buildings with natural materials.
Material Used :
1. Facade cladding: Kebony pine exterior
2. Roofing: Glass, Saint-Gobain Glass solutions
3. Interior furniture: Built-in oak and Tainted MDF interior treated with OSMO wax
