Jakob+MacFarlane Crafts Contemplative Refuge from Reclaimed Pallets on Normandy Coast

Jakob+MacFarlane has unveiled “A Shelter for Peace,” a temporary installation on the exposed headland of Cap Carteret in Normandy, France. Commissioned by Nadine Gandy of Gandy Gallery as part of the Common Shelters initiative, the project reimagines the concept of shelter by repurposing reclaimed wooden pallets, exploring the intersection of architecture, landscape, and contemplative experience.

The installation is strategically positioned to respond to the rugged coastal environment, offering a space that is both protective and designed to engage with its surroundings.

Pallets as Architectural Elements

The primary material for “A Shelter for Peace” is reclaimed wooden pallets, which are stacked to form the structure. This layered approach creates walls that also serve as integrated seating, blurring the lines between architectural elements and functional components. The arrangement of these timber layers is carefully considered to frame views of the offshore islands, while the interior space is oriented to draw attention upward towards the sky. This design establishes a dynamic relationship between the sheltered interior, the expansive landscape, and the distant horizon.

A Framework for Contemplation

Positioned at the confluence of architecture, landscape installation, and public space, “A Shelter for Peace” serves a dual purpose: as a physical refuge from the elements and as a dedicated area for quiet observation. The choice of a simple, reversible material palette underscores the project’s commitment to reuse. It demonstrates how construction materials with a past life can be transformed into a meaningful spatial structure with minimal environmental impact.

Common Shelters Initiative

“A Shelter for Peace” is part of Common Shelters, an annual program hosted at Cap Carteret. Through this initiative, Gandy Gallery invites European designers and architects to create contemporary interpretations of shelter. The program delves into the multifaceted nature of shelter, examining its role in refuge, social interaction, and contemplation, all through ecological, cultural, and landscape-focused lenses. Jakob+MacFarlane’s contribution aligns with these themes, offering a unique perspective on how temporary structures can foster a connection with place.

The installation is designed to remain on site until the end of September 2026, providing visitors with an extended opportunity to experience its unique atmosphere and design principles.

Key facts
| Feature | Detail |
|—|—|
| Project Name | A Shelter for Peace |
| Designer | Jakob+MacFarlane |
| Location | Cap Carteret, Normandy, France |
| Commissioned by | Nadine Gandy of Gandy Gallery |
| Program | Common Shelters |
| Material | Reclaimed wooden pallets |
| Duration | Until end of September 2026 |

This project is of interest to Paionia7 readers as it highlights innovative uses of reclaimed materials in temporary architectural installations, demonstrating how design can respond to specific site conditions and promote contemplation within the landscape. The focus on reuse and minimal intervention aligns with growing discussions around sustainability in architecture and design.

Source: https://www.designboom.com/art/jakob-macfarlane-reclaimed-pallets-contemplative-refuge-normandy-coast-shelter-for-peace/

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