Lysefjorden, Norway
The Bolder Project by Snøhetta grew out of the desire to create an experience that is truly special and authentic, where nature plays a major part and consists of four cabins laying on a cliff edge with “a front-row view” of Lysefjorden in Norway.
The four cabins, named: Stylten, Myra, Stjerna, and Eldhuset are located on the edge of Lysefjorden, built to blend in with the landscape with a minimal footprint on the surrounding nature.
They are lifted above ground on large concrete pillars and have glass facades for guests to appreciate the natural surroundings from inside their private cabin and to bring the outdoors inside.
With the Bolder project, Snøhetta strived to preserve nature and enhance the experience of moving in an untouched landscape, with the smallest possible footprint on the surroundings.
The cabins are lifted over the ground to create a weightless feeling on the edge of the spectacular, steep mountainsides, diving down into the clear blue fjord.
The goal was to create a total experience for the visitors – coming back to a cozy, warm wooden nest with a spectacular panoramic view of the ever-changing weather after a full day of hiking along the fjord.
When stepping inside, guests are left with the illusion of floating in the air on the cliff’s edge with unobstructed views over the fjord and mountains filled with Bonsai-like pine trees and boulders left by the glaciers when the ice age came to an end thousands of years ago.
To draw the serenity of nature inside the cabins, a minimalistic design ethos with furniture in natural and durable materials in earthy colors and organic textures was opted for in the interior design and styling.
Thoughtfulness underpins the interior choices and accentuates the meditative flow evoked by the space.
The cabins boast an upper floor with a kitchen and dining area by Vipp and a ground floor with a built-in bed and bathroom.
Wood, marble, and leather are recurring materials of choice in the selection of furniture.
In contrast, the concrete flooring on the lower level adds a roughness to a sensible décor.
Project: Bolder Project
Architects: Snøhetta AS
Lead Architect: Frank Denis Foray
Client: Tom Bjarte Norland
Photographs :Elin Engelsvoll, Henrik Moksnes, and Elisabeth Heier