Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Nordic Architecture & Design Special – Sweden
Skýli, Utopia’s trekking cabin, is nominated in the leisure-led development category at the World Architecture Festival (WAF) awards.
Mixing urban with wilderness Utopia Arkitekter has no humble ambition. The mission statement has been clear since the beginning: to create a better society. Most recently, this has included a trekking cabin designed for the rugged Nordic landscape.
where hikers and guides can rest, get new energy or, if needed, wait for the weather to improve.
By Malin Norman | Photos: Utopia Arkitekter
Skýli combines traditional and modernday elements of architecture with four pyramid-shaped volumes into a strong, stable and sustainable structure. Its inside is made of cross laminated timber and the shell of colour coated steel, painted with Swedish rapeseed oil-based paint. The big windows provide transparency and open up to the surrounding scenic landscape.
Set up in 2008 by Emma Jonsteg and Mattias Litström, Utopia’s goal is to increase positive values and social sustainability through a long-term approach and high-quality architectural designs – not only for homes and offices, but also in landscapes and urban developments. This is made possible through a close dialogue with stakeholders, careful analysis of requirements and the use of experts from a wide range of fields and, ultimately, by adding architectural value to the sites. “Our projects raise some important questions,” says co-founder and CEO 116 | Issue 105 | October 2017
Jonsteg. “In our proposed designs, we provide architectural solutions such as integrated sustainability and use of public green spaces, as well as an added local and contemporary touch. By doing so, we can also help to strengthen the identity of the area.”
Iconic trekking cabin Skýli A recent project that no doubt stands out from the rest is Skýli, Utopia’s proposal for a cabin that can be placed along trekking routes even in the most remote location. The assignment was to create a trekking cabin that offers a safe, comfortable and welcoming environment
This cabin has plenty of character and is easy to spot in the rugged landscape. The original design has been nominated for the World Architecture Festival (WAF) and Jonsteg is no doubt proud. “This is an exciting project, a smart modular construction that can be easily transported