manthey kula architects: roadside reststop akkarvikodden

‘roadside reststop akkarvikodden’ by manthey kula architects, lofoten, norway image © paul warchol all images courtesy of manthey kula architects

along a scenic tourist route in lofoten, norway, is ‘roadside reststop akkarvikodden’, a toilet facility completed by oslo-based manthey kula architects. part of an initiative to install observation platforms, stopping points and connections to existing points of interest, this structure creates a hybrid experience of nature and design. a replacement to a previous restroom which was destroyed in a coastal storm, the weight of the 10mm corten steel walls are cast into concrete foundations and welded together with steel plate reinforcements.

the clerestory windows provide views of the mountains through 12-20mm thick glass panes while the doors are comprised of 5mm stainless steel plates. glass panels surface the interior preventing any discoloration to clothes due to rust. the metal piping for mechanical and plumbing systems are exposed since insulation is not necessary as the building is only open in the summer.

wood and glass exterior image © paul warchol

clerestory window for natural daylight and outward views of the landscape image © steiner skaar

smaller restroom image © paul warchol

larger restroom image © paul warchol

at night image © paul warchol

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