An innovative structure looking like a whale’s tail emerging from the water. Where, when and why will it be built?
The WHALE: archistars at the end of the WORLD
For study something at its best, you have to do it as an insider. So, what better way to study whales than from inside a whale? With whale watching purposes, then, “The Whale” will be completed by 2022. The building will have the shape of a giant whale’s tail, and will raise up in the heart of the Arctic Circle. Let’s find it out how together.
# A new way of watching whales and an incentive for tourism
“The Whale” observatory was designed by the Danish architecture firm Dorte Mandrup A/S. Its main purpose remaining observe these fascinating mammals and preserve marine life, is also an attempt to increase the tourist flow. In northern Norway, the island of Andøya, already counts some 50,000 visitors a year. Built on the coast, the gigantic whale tail will host inside exhibition spaces, offices, a café and even a shop.
# It looks like a whale’s tail emerging from the water
According to the project, the structure should blend in with the surrounding environment. And, so, really look like the tail of a whale coming out of the water. The roof of the observatory is made of stone, in harmony with the rocky landscape around. The glass walls, too, create a continuum between the internal and external spaces.
“The Whale” will emerge right on the Andøya coast, becoming the last limit between mainland and open sea. in the darkness of the night, only the moon reflection will enlighten it, leaving the imagination run freely.
# Will the observatory and its panoramic roof revolutionize Norwegian tourism?
It will even be possible to walk on the roof top, that’s ready to become an immense panoramic terrace from which observing the cetaceans or the Northern Lights, and take photos or selfies.
Besides being an important cultural site, “The Whale” has already gone viral all over the world: will it be a coveted attraction that will revolutionize whale watching and Norwegian tourism itself?
ROSITA GIULIANO
copyright reshumana.com
