‘Under’ — Europe’s First Underwater Restaurant Designed by Snøhetta
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The name of Europe’s first underwater restaurant — “Under” — can as well be read as “Wonder” in Norwegian. Designed by Snohetta, along the rocky Norwegian coastline of the village of Båly, the restaurant evokes a sense of awe and delight physic
‘Under’ — Europe’s First Underwater Restaurant Designed by Snøhetta
The name of Europe’s first underwater restaurant — “Under” — can as well be read as “Wonder” in Norwegian. Designed by Snohetta, along the rocky Norwegian coastline of the village of Båly, the restaurant evokes a sense of awe and delight physically as well as intellectually. Half sunken into the sea with one part directly resting on the sea bed, the restaurant’s sleek monolithic form with panoramic acrylic windows resembles a periscope that offers spectacular views of the seabed and marine life.The restaurant design is sensitive to its geographic location and the marine flora and fauna. The meter-thick walls in concrete have a coarse surface, which on the one hand give strength to the building to withstand the rugged marine conditions, while on the other hand allow mussels to cling on the surface. As the community densifies over time, the submerged part of the structure will be transformed into an artificial mussel reef that will help in rinsing the sea as well as attract marine life.The color palette of the restaurant is also inspired by its geographical setting. The subdued colors of the champagne bar evoke the sediment of sand, rocks, and shells. The seabed and seaweed lend dark blue and green colors to the dining room. The warm oak interiors sit in contrast with the rough concrete façade, adding a feeling of intimacy to the restaurant ambience. Informational plaques about marine diversity dot the trail that leads to the restaurant. During its closed hours, the restaurant will also serve as a marine biology research center for studying fish behavior and marine biology.For more details, visit: https://snohetta.com/contactClick on the slideshow for a sneak peek at the project. Read more
