Arctic Treehouse Hotel by Studio Puisto Architects
Designed in 2016 by Studio Puisto Architects, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel located in Rovaniemi, Finland consists of 32 accommodation units placed in the nature.
About Arctic Treehouse Hotel
The Genesis of the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel
The Arctic TreeHouse Hotel project blossomed from a collaborative vision with the client. Drawing inspiration from Nordic culture, nature, and the enchantment of SantaPark, an idea emerged: distinct accommodations nestled within nature, capturing the Arctic’s essence.
Nature-Infused Architectural Design
Shaped like pine cone cows, the hotel units harmoniously rise amidst nature on their dark, slender legs. Draped downhill, these structures marvel at the landscape and northern lights.
Versatile Accommodations
32 paired units dot the terrain in two unique designs. Above the road, stairs weave between buildings to the entrance. Below, pairs can merge into a larger space, accessible directly from the street. Inside, a mini-kitchen graces one unit, while others house a fridge. Upon entering, guests encounter a storage-laden hallway leading to a bathroom and a nest-like sleeping nook. Beyond lies a luminous space, with vast windows unveiling breathtaking vistas.
Aesthetics Meet Sustainability
Constructed in wood, these units epitomize cozy nests. Striking a balance between rugged wilderness and snug interiors, deliberate details resonate with the locale. Soft, warm materials underscore the nesting ambiance. Ecological considerations influenced every design step. Green roofs manage runoff, restoring vegetation to the site. Interior wood ensures comfort, healthy air, and serene acoustics.
Embracing the Arctic Nights
Minimized outdoor light pollution accentuates the northern lights and enriches the wild experience. Sparse lighting ensures safety, with select trees illuminated as landmarks. By night, the structures glow like lanterns, casting intriguing shadows. Daylight fosters a dialogue between the buildings and nature.
Eco-Friendly Construction Approach
Units, built indoors and equipped down to fixed furniture, mount onto pillars directly from transport, minimizing environmental impact. Only infrastructure connections and large window installations occurred onsite. Meticulous craftsmanship ensured subtle details, like seamless doors. A prototype, crafted before the main project, refined the design. Remarkably, planning began in August 2015, with the prototype ready by December 2015, and the completed structures by November 2016. This swift progress resulted from the client’s vision, builders’ expertise, and seamless teamwork.
Expanding the Arctic Narrative
Beyond the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, diverse units will populate the area, providing fresh architectural perspectives on the Arctic. A reception, restaurant, and five larger units further enrich the narrative initiated by the pine cone designs.
Photography by Marc Goodwin
Visit Studio Puisto Architects
- by Matt Watts
