Architecture studio Snøhetta has designed an innovative hikers’ refuge, Refuge de Barroude, nestled within the Pyrenees National Park. Situated along the scenic Haute Route des Pyrénées, the refuge combines functionality with harmony, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage site.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Pyrenees National Park, France
Architecture: Snøhetta
Photography: Courtesy of Snøhetta
The project stands as a replacement for a previous refuge destroyed by fire a decade ago, offering not only shelter but also an experience of the natural beauty that surrounds it. The structure is defined by its curved aluminium roof, designed to echo the contours of the nearby mountains, creating an elegant and inviting shelter. This roof is also topped with grass, allowing the building to merge effortlessly into its surroundings while serving as a visual landmark.
Snøhetta’s design approach prioritizes minimal disruption to the environment. As stated by the studio, “The concept for the new Barroude refuge is based on the desire to provide a safe haven for hikers while preserving the integrity and majesty of its natural surroundings.” This philosophy shines through in every aspect of the refuge, from its materials to its minimal footprint.
The unique form of Refuge de Barroude is inspired by the natural topography of the Pyrenees. With its low-impact construction using recycled wood walls and an aluminium structure, the building integrates smoothly into its setting. A base of local stone further ensures the refuge fits naturally within the landscape.
To minimize the environmental impact, earthworks and concrete foundations are kept to a minimum, allowing the building to “skim” the ground lightly. The use of local materials and prefabricated structures significantly reduces the need for transportation via helicopter, a critical consideration for remote construction.
Inside, the two-storey refuge will offer a reception area, visitor bedrooms, and support space for National Park staff. The design is modern, with interiors lined in warm timber, maximizing natural light to create a bright, welcoming atmosphere.
The building also houses a bar and restaurant with an outdoor terrace that overlooks Lake Barroude, offering visitors the chance to enjoy spectacular views while being sheltered from the region’s notoriously harsh winds. Dormitory spaces will cater to both hikers and staff, making it a functional and communal space amidst the wild.
Snøhetta’s design philosophy for the Refuge de Barroude revolves around sustainability. As part of their goal to promote low-carbon materials, the refuge emphasizes prefabrication, minimizing the environmental footprint and reducing the need for resource-heavy on-site work. This attention to sustainability ensures that the structure remains environmentally sensitive while providing all the modern conveniences necessary for hikers.
By respecting the majesty of its surroundings and employing a minimalist approach to construction, Snøhetta has created a refuge that serves as both a safe haven for adventurers and a stunning addition to the landscape. The balance between integration and visibility in the design allows the Refuge de Barroude to maintain its identity as a landmark while preserving the delicate beauty of the Pyrenees mountains.
In line with the studio’s previous work—such as a reindeer herding school in Norway and a ski resort holiday home in Japan—this refuge once again demonstrates Snøhetta’s talent for creating structures that seamlessly blend with nature. Their vision for the Refuge de Barroude elevates it beyond a mere stopover for hikers, transforming it into a destination that celebrates the untamed beauty of the French-Spanish border.
