The Beacon Project
Competition - Design a place in nature to regather, refresh and re-boot
Location: Remote Island of Foula – Shetland Isles.
Sometimes you just need to get away from it all - disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with the natural world.
We live in a society of overstimulation – so perhaps it’s time for us to offer an alternative, an inspirational space for those seeking solitude - a place where they can take stock, re-gather, refresh and re-boot. After all, isn’t solitude bliss?
In partnership with Mind, the mental health charity, outdoor clothing and footwear brand Launched The Beacon Project– a quest to create the perfect temporary structure that will completely complement its remote natural surroundings and provide a peaceful haven away from the stresses and strains of modern life. An inspirational sanctuary, where people can be immersed in the natural world and spend time appreciating and benefiting from the restorative effects of the great outdoors…
The Beacon is intentionally built at low level in relation to the peaks of Foula, allowing the peaks to remain pristine and aiding ease of construction. It is visible from the airport and the school and has been sited at Hamnafjeld, due west of Da Mill Loch.
The structure is formed as a pentagonal prism with sloping roof, it mimics the five peaks of Foula and acts as a beacon in the landscape.
The Beacon is a temporary place to rest and recharge, multi-use and seasonal. Use is run on a timeshare for tourists and islanders, shared by both. A wanderer’s cocoon, akin a crofter’s cabin. A pause for tea on the peat burning stove and a moments’ rest in the rugged landscape. A bird hide to view the natural beauty of the Arctic Turns, Great Skua, Puffins and Guillemots. A fisherman’s hut sheltering anglers in a storm. A changing place for summer swimmers. A starting point for evening kayakers across the loch.
As a crofter’s kep, the structure is insulated with entangled wool linings, surplus from Foula wool production. A demountable bolted Douglas Fir timber frame facilitates local sourcing, re-siting and potential reuse of the primary structure.
Islanders enjoy the beacon and it signals beyond the island.