Camilla Beach Hut

Shortlisted

The proposal celebrates the harsh, saline conditions by conceiving of the beach hut as a timepiece. A simple ‘floating’ cubic form clad in metal panels of varying rates of corrosion, enabling the measurement of the seasons through subtly changing weathering patterns. It becomes an experiment into entropy and decay.

Strategic placement of openings in the slowly rusting skin responds to views and gives a changing quality of light and shadow to the calm interior.

A flexible space for sunning, resting, dreaming, changing, showering, watching, sketching, partying, dozing … as well as a home for wildlife.

Corten steel clads the large wall panel (folding down as a seating deck) facing the sea to the East; the remainder of the East façade is 3mm stainless steel plate, wrapping round to cover the North face (mirror-polished 316-steel, reducing corrosion rates and bouncing light in the space between huts). The West façade rusts rapidly while retaining integrity (4mm min. oiled mild steel proposed). Aluminium-bronze covers the South façade (highly resistant to atmospheric/ saline corrosion with an attractive gold-toned coloration), with photovoltaic panels.

The galv. steel frame is infilled with stud panels. The interior is designed for flexibility of use. Cladding to walls and floor is black-stained/ natural plywood panels, with folding-down panels for bed/ seating. Movable furniture is ply/acrylic. Kitchen and shower facilities are provided, with deck-chair storage. Exterior lighting below the cube enhances the ‘floating’ impression. Wheelchair access is by ramping up to the seating deck. Windows on the South and West sides are protected by sliding timber grilles. The frameless-glazed Southeast corner supplies views and morning sun.

A green roof – sedum, with wild flowers – supports insects. A Barn Owl ‘funnel’ box to the Northwest corner of the roof is appropriate for more isolated locations.

A beach hut to celebrate change and uncertainty.