Norwegian architect Snøhetta has unveiled its design for a mountain refuge located in a Unesco world heritage area of France’s Pyrenees National Park.
The Barroude mountain refuge will replace another that burned down 10 years ago. It will provide a relay for hikers on the long-distance Haute Route des Pyrénées, and will also be a support centre for park staff.
The structure is split in two, with one area containing a dining room, toilets and dormitories for six-to-eight people, and the other providing accommodation for the refuge warden and other park employees.
The project will be made from local stone, recycled wood and aluminium. Its shape is inspired by the contours of the surrounding mountains, and comes with a green roof to help it blend into the scenery.
Drinking water is supplied by a tank linked to a spring, and there are solar and biomass heating systems.
Work on the project is due to begin in 2025 and be completed by 2027.
- Subscribe here to get stories about construction around the world in your inbox three times a week
