Categories
Housing Master´s Thesis 2020

Julia Olsson

Abstract 

Tourism has become one of the fastest growing industries in the world and it is strongly valuable in the socio-economic sector. The demand for a more sustainable tourism is therefore crucial. Short time residence for people to rent for a shorter or longer period of time, that support ecotourism and attract visitors during all seasons of the year, could ease the burden tourism put on nature and parts of the local community. 

The aim with the thesis is to enhance and increase the understanding of Vorfjorden unique landscape and cultural heritage. The concept of ecotourism will be implemented into a new version of the traditional network of mountain cabins fused together with a culture centre (Mountain Cabin Culture Centre, MCC-Centre). The topologies within the centre will be shaped by the different demands for each programed activity together with interpretations of the landscape. The proposed centre interplay with nature and create space for people to share their interpretations and experiences of the place. On the basis of these conditions, the center will constantly be under development based on the ideas and thoughts that are born when people stay in the Centre. It will hopefully encourage local people to take part in the new development and tourist to explore in a more humble and respectful way. 

The method I will use is mapping the identity and limitations of the context through a thorough landscape analysis, site visit, climate research and research on the cultural heritage. I will also map the identity and functions of typical Norwegian mountain cabins through reading and case studying of contemporary Norwegian architecture. Lastly, I will try to get into the mind of the potential users, using myself as a great source of experience, as a hiker, but also through interviews and online sources. The discoveries will then be translated into a design project through sketches both digital and physical. 

Keywords 
Short time residence, ecotourism, MCC-Centre, spatial experience, interpretations, cultural heritage, ecological limitations  



Juliachristinaolsson@gmail.com
+46 (0)76-8781475