TOROA Research Station

WINNER [1] of New Zealand Nature Retreat: Antipodes Island

+ WINNER [1]

New Zealand Nature Retreat: Antipodes Island

[19742]

TOROA Research Station, Designed to belong

Team

Name: Leonid Kosolapov

Instagram: @neueraum

Nationality: Netherlands

Institution / Company: Eindhoven University of Technology

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On the scar of a former helicopter hangar, Toroa research station rests on slender columns, touching the ground lightly. Inside it, a timber skeleton holding a 160 m2 off grid research home for four people, stretching from quiet bedrooms to busy labs. Eating, living, meeting are situated in the heart of the building, where long views, created by the building’s wings, frame the sea, the cliffs and nesting birds. Shared workspaces, flexible storage and a compact library support weeks of focused fieldwork in shifting subantarctic climate.  

Every element arrives by helicopter as hand carried modules, no heavier than two people can carry. Everything is assembled by hand, bolted not poured, so that one day it can leave without a trace. Power, water and waste systems are contained within the structure, avoiding new scars on the landscape. Dark grey FRP panels wrap the structure, making it look like a cliff. Light, strong and bio receptive, they invite moss to colonise the facade until the station blends with the island’s landscape. Here the building is not a landmark but a long-term guest, existing with the island’s climate and ecosystem rather than ever against it. Its success is measured by how little remains.

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Jury Comments

– Yanyan Zhang

The project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to site selection, effectively minimizing its impact on the natural environment. The architectural solution is elegant and well-resolved, showcasing a careful exploration of specific materials and construction techniques, and translating technical considerations into a refined architectural expression.

– Monique Wong

The idea of utilizing light, modular construction and a façade that encourages moss growth, is interesting and work nicely in harmonizing with the landscape. Its focus on sustainability and adaptability reflects a deep respect for the fragile subantarctic ecosystem which links to the context.

– Federica Fogazzi

The fruit of analysis and research is evident in this proposal, which has feasibility and practicality at its core. The result is a low impact architecture that serves its function.

– Maria Vittoria Delli Carri

Very practical, down to earth and clearly explained.