In the rhythm of nature

This thesis focuses on the theme of bivouacs, emergency structures in mountain environments, proposing a re-elaboration of shapes without changing their function. Through the use of translucent materials, novel for the high mountains, an intimate connection with the surrounding nature is researched, allowing users to dwell in the rhythm of nature.

The design hypothesis concerns a fixed bivouac located on a ridge in the Apuan Alps, in the province of Lucca, Italy. The input for the design idea was elaborated by applying the method of analogies to the principles of bivouac. Through this method, characteristics of extraneous objects or concepts that share certain features with it are attributed to the device under consideration. The first analogy exploited is the lighthouse, chosen for its function as an emergency and landmark, from which the ability to generate light to guide the wayfarer was taken. The second one is the Swiss Army knife, chosen as an emblem of spatial efficiency, whose opening mechanism can be found in the multifunctional interior furnishings. The dialogue with the context is researched through two main design choices. On the outside, the slope of the roof recalls the nearby mountain. Inside, a series of steps follow the descending profile of the ridge, creating a staircase that, like a theatre, invites the view through a wide opening in the direction of the sea. Keeping in mind the logistical aspect, it was decided to have a structure as light as possible that could be built downstream and transported as a single piece by helicopter. Therefore, a basement that would adapt to the unevenness and slope of the site and serve as a base for the actual bivouac was planned. Both structures, basement and bivouac, are made of pultruded profiles. Finally, the last design choice concerns the cladding. Through the use of translucent materials, light can filter from outside to inside and vice versa, allowing the bivouac to take on shades similar to that of its surroundings, blending with the mutable mountain landscape. This will allow anyone inside the bivouac to perceive the succession of day and night occurring outside the enclosure, becoming part of it. At night, in the presence of occupants, the bivouac will light up like a lighthouse in the darkness, as an extreme sign of human activity in the high mountain scenery.