Alpine Burrow: Subterranean Learning Space by Officina 82
Officina 82 has completed a groundbreaking subterranean educational installation known as Tana delle Marmotte, or "Marmot Den," situated at a lofty elevation of 2,173 meters within the Skyway Monte Bianco cableway's Pavillon intermediate station in Italy's Aosta Valley. This innovative project is specifically designed to provide an immersive learning experience for young people, fusing interactive play with essential environmental education. It masterfully recreates the underground habitat of Alpine marmots through a modular architectural approach, integrating itself harmoniously into the mountainous terrain.
The architectural design of the Tana delle Marmotte centers around three prefabricated Corten steel conduits, forming the primary structural framework. The core of the structure is an 8-meter-long central tube, flanked by two transverse access pipes measuring 2,200 mm and 1,300 mm in diameter. To ensure the delicate high-altitude ecosystem remains undisturbed, the entire installation rests on a fine gravel bed, eliminating the need for permanent concrete foundations and thus guaranteeing its complete reversibility. These Corten components were meticulously fabricated off-site with flanged connections and precisely calibrated for helicopter transport. On-site assembly was conducted using dry methods, significantly minimizing environmental impact and the necessity for an extensive construction footprint in this elevated location.
The interior of the Tana delle Marmotte is thoughtfully lined with 40 mm thick, three-ply spruce plywood ribs. These ribs are securely anchored to perimeter timber rings, precisely mirroring the circular profile of the steel structure. The spaces between the ribs are filled with tongue-and-groove spruce boarding, collectively creating a continuous, organically flowing interior volume that vividly evokes the natural winter hibernation tunnels of marmots. The timber surfaces are ingeniously designed to serve multiple functions, incorporating ergonomic seating, display cases for educational exhibits, mounts for graphic information, and a carved staircase. This staircase leads to a transparent acrylic porthole, offering visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding Alpine landscape. Strategically placed overhead LED strips illuminate the curved interior, guiding visitors along the educational pathway.
This initiative by Officina 82 not only provides a unique educational experience but also stands as a testament to sustainable architectural practices in challenging environments. The careful consideration of material choices, construction methods, and the project's reversible nature highlights a commitment to preserving the pristine alpine environment while offering an engaging and informative space for future generations.