This fireplace is a shelter, or rather this shelter doubles as a fireplace and social reading room, or gathering area. It was designed and built by Haugen/Zohar Architects in Norway as a place for children to enjoy outdoor activities year-round.
![Norwegian Hut](https://offgridworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/norwegian-hut1.jpg.webp)
Haugen/Zohar Architects | Photos: Jason Havenraas and Unni Skogvoll
This structure expands on the simple design of Norwegian turf huts and adds a contemporary element, making it stylish and functional.
![Norwegian Hut](https://offgridworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/norwegian-hut2.jpg.webp)
Haugen/Zohar Architects
Together with the standard playground facilities we wished to combine an enclosed space for fire, storytelling and playing. Given a very limited budget, reusing leftover materials from a nearby construction site was a starting point that led the design to be based on short wooden pieces. Inspired by the Norwegian turf huts and old log construction, a wooden construction was built and mounted on a lighted and brushed concrete base. – HZA
![Norwegian Hut](https://offgridworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/norwegian-hut4.jpg.webp)
Haugen/Zohar Architects
Using recycled lumber kept construction costs low while helping the environment.
![Norwegian Hut](https://offgridworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/norwegian-hut6.jpg.webp)
Haugen/Zohar Architects
This would be awesome to have in the backyard, to hang out in and entertain guests, or just sit back and enjoy the fire with loved ones.
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via: HZA Architects
Photos: Jason Havenraas and Unni Skogvoll