Winter in the Krkonoše Mountains is a time when the mountains become a particularly favorable place for relaxation, offering not only breathtaking scenery, but also tranquility and proximity to nature. In such conditions, a modern shelter over the Snowy Cauldrons was designed by {tag:studenci} from Lublin University of Technology. The project, which is a thesis, aimed to create a space that fully meets the needs of modern tourists/tourists, while maintaining harmony with the mountainous surroundings.
site development plan
© Sara Pastusiak
Hostel as an element of the Karkonosze landscape
Śnieżne Kotły is one of the most picturesque places in the Karkonosze Mountains, full of both natural beauty and historical heritage. This unique place was home to the first hostel in the Sudetenland, and the new project involves restoring this tradition while adapting the building to modern tourist standards. The hostel designed by Kamila Boguszewska is therefore a place that combines functionality with an ecological approach to construction.
north elevation
© Sara Pastusiak
modern form with respect for tradition
The design is based on an in-depth analysis of the site, which takes into account the relief of the terrain, the layout of view openings and the features of regional architecture. The building consists of five modular blocks, offset from each other. Each of these modules is reminiscent of traditional Krkonoše houses, their rectangular form and gabled roofs with the ridge parallel to the horizons add character. The facades, finished in wood and stone, refer to local traditions, and the appropriate direction of the boards on the facades is reminiscent of the finishes of old mountain huts. The design also takes into account minimal interference with the surroundings, to damage the natural landscape as little as possible.
east elevation and west elevation
© Sara Pastusiak
comfort and functionality in the mountains
The central idea of the project was to create functional zones, providing comfort for tourists/tourists while respecting the space and landscape. The central part of the hostel features a spacious entrance area that leads to the reception, store, restrooms and decorative staircase. A restaurant has been designed on the western side, which offers a magnificent view of the Snowy Cauldrons thanks to a glass wall. Such a solution not only provides tourists with unforgettable views, but is also a reference to traditional hostel verandas.
visualization
© Sara Pastusiak
The eastern part of the building is reserved for the facility's employees/staff and includes spacious rooms, a kitchen and breakout spaces. The part for tourists, on the other hand, includes single, double and triple rooms, with bathrooms. The project also includes an attic space that has been allocated for public rest areas, allowing tourists to relax amidst the mountain landscape.
visualization
© Sara Pastusiak
ecological solutions for sustainable development
The design of the hostel takes full account of ecological aspects. The building is equipped with state-of-the-art systems, such as ventilation with recuperation, gray water recovery, as well as photovoltaic panels on the roof, which support the extraction of energy from renewable sources. In addition, a roof drainage system allows for efficient use of rainwater. Windows that meet the standards of energy-efficient buildings and adequate thermal insulation contribute to reducing heat loss, which reduces the energy intensity of the building, making it more environmentally friendly.
visualization
© Sara Pastusiak
modernity in harmony with nature
The design of the shelter over the Snowy Cauldrons, by Kamila Boguszewska, is an example of architecture that combines functionality with ecological solutions and respect for local tradition. Thanks to the use of traditional materials and attention to detail, the hostel becomes an integral part of the Karkonosze landscape, offering tourists comfort and an unforgettable experience of communing with nature. The project is an excellent example of how contemporary architecture can harmoniously coexist with its surroundings, offering tourists a space where both comfort and sustainability go hand in hand.
interior
© Sara Pastusiak
