Architecture News

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.

In a groundbreaking exhibition, Mexican creative force Leonardo Garza has unveiled "Matter / Memory," an interactive installation that transcends traditional olfactory engagement, offering a profound exploration of fragrance through physical interaction and sensory immersion. Commissioned for BYREDO's official debut in Mexico, this innovative work reinterprets five of the brand's iconic scents as tangible memories, inviting participants on a journey of discovery that blends touch, sound, and sight.

Garza's vision for "Matter / Memory" moves beyond conventional visual interpretations of aroma, instead focusing on the inherent connection between scent and personal recollection. Each of BYREDO's distinctive fragrances is treated as a unique memory, translated into a structured spatial experience using raw, tactile materials and evocative soundscapes. The installation is composed of five distinct curved sections, each concealing a carefully chosen material composition beneath a transparent surface. Thousands of polished stainless steel spheres form a dynamic, movable curtain across these segments. Visitors are encouraged to physically engage with the artwork, gently shifting these spheres to gradually reveal the hidden textures and elements below. This interaction not only uncovers the material essence of each fragrance but also generates a subtle, resonating metallic sound, adding an additional auditory layer to the multisensory encounter. Through this gradual unveiling and sonic feedback, "Matter / Memory" fosters an intimate dialogue between the observer and the art piece, emphasizing the interplay between what is hidden and what is brought to light.

Within the installation, each curved fragment is thoughtfully dedicated to representing a specific BYREDO fragrance through its chosen material. For example, the earthy essence of Gypsy Water is evoked by charcoal and ash, suggesting a grounding, nomadic spirit. Rose of No Man’s Land finds its expression in fractured glass, symbolizing delicate strength and resilience. Mojave Ghost is brought to life through mineral dust, reflecting the arid beauty and ethereal quality of the desert. Bal d’Afrique is embodied by rich red ochre earth, conjuring images of vibrant landscapes and ancient traditions. Finally, Blanche is represented by soft, folded white textile, signifying purity and simplicity. A delicate mist of fog envelops the entire installation, creating an atmospheric, dreamlike environment where light, reflection, and material coalesce and continuously evolve, further deepening the immersive experience. This project underscores Garza's enduring fascination with the confluence of art and design, as he consistently seeks new modes of expression across various creative disciplines, from objects and furniture to large-scale spatial installations.

Ultimately, "Matter / Memory" challenges perceptions of how scent can be experienced and understood. By transforming ephemeral fragrances into a concrete, interactive environment, Garza creates a lasting impression that engages multiple senses. The installation not only celebrates BYREDO's aromatic heritage but also serves as a testament to the power of design to translate intangible concepts into compelling, shared human experiences, pushing the boundaries of sensory art and interaction.