Turtagro Hotel / JVA

Architects: Jarmund/Vigsnæs AS Architects MNAL
Location: Sognefjellet, Norway
Client: Ole Drægni
Project Architects: Einar Jarmund & Håkon Vigsnæs
Collaborator: Roar Lund-Johnsen
Project Year: 2001-2002
Constructed Area: 1,500 sqm
Photographs: Nils Petter Dale

The old Turtagrø Hotel, which has been the starting point for climbing in the Hurrungane Mountains for more than a hundred years, burned down in 2001. The owner wanted to create some of the atmosphere of the old building – a recognisable scale, spatial sequence, colours and materials, relating to a nearby timber annex. Outside of this the requirement was for a hotel with a new architectonic expression and an efficient layout.

All communal functions have been placed on ground or basement floor around a small reception, with all guest rooms on first and second floor. It was a challenge to combine large capacity with the necessary intimacy in the communal areas. The guest rooms differ from conventional hotel rooms in that they have no ante-space, and are shallower and wider than normal. This gives the opportunity for a more open connection between bed- and bathroom. The interiors are robust and simple.

The architectonic expression of the building ties it visually to the surrounding mountains, and allows the three ascending tower suites. The architecture sets up a dialogue with the landscape, while the stonewalls, carves panels surfaces and the recessed glazing talk with the existing annex.

The hotel is built with a steel structure and prefabricated decks spanning between the external walls, giving the plan full freedom. It is clad with timber panelling, felt shingles and natural stone externally, with lime-washed panelling, painted wooden floors and oiled oak in the interior.