LO 3 – Computational Fabrication

Norwegian Wild Reindeer Centre Pavilion (2011) by Snøhetta

The Norwegian Wild Reindeer Centre Pavilion is an observation pavilion that overlooks the Snøhetta mountain in Norway. The rock shaped wooden core represents the surrounding rock that has been eroded due to wind and running water.

In order to generate the form, Snøhetta design team used “digital 3D-models such as MAYA to drive the milling machines, Norwegian shipbuilders in Hardangerfjord created the organic shape from 10 inch square pine timber beams.” After, the wood was assembled in a traditional way – using wood pegs as fasteners. The form resembles Snøhetta’s style of expressionism and visual boldness. Materials include pine tar treated exterior wall and oiled interior wood walls.

The pavilion is a robust yet undisturbed in its form that the building itself “gives visitors an opportunity to reflect and contemplate this vast and rich landscape.” Personally, this aesthetic and design quality is the most admirable in which this company engages the audience with the architecture as well as the landscape in a natural, flowing way.