rintala eggertsson architects: watchtower, seljord, norway

watchtower, seljord, norway by rintala eggertsson architects all images courtesy rintala eggertsson architects

in 2008, norwegian rintala eggertsson architects were commissioned by the municipality of seljord to design a platform where locals and visitors to the area could enjoy the attractive surroundings and see the scenery where the legendary serpent of lake seljord has exposed itself throughout the centuries.  a part of the project proposal was an outline of an architectural programme for other lookout platforms around the lake, where the qualities of the landscape could be emphasized according to the specific characteristics of each site.

the main platform was placed in the north-western end of the lake, close to seljord town and the main road through the area.  to ensure good visibility especially towards the main road, the platform was therefore elevated to 12,5 meters above ground level, consisting of three resting spaces and a view towards important features in the landscape.

the view of the watchtower from a distance

site plan