Unusual ways to go camping seem to be all the rage this summer and UrbanCampsiteAmsterdam may have taken the idea to the most extreme. Not only can you stay inside these unusual structures, but they are also an open-air exhibition open to the public.
The installation is located in the Centrumeiland, or Centre Island, an artificial peninsula made of layers of sand. It’s an experimental process for the small country anticipating growth along its waterfront areas. Designer Francis Nijenhuis and economist Annette van Driel saw the area as a wasted opportunity and wanted to show the public a unique way of looking at, and utilizing, space. They commissioned various designers to create 14 mobile structures that will eventually be moved elsewhere.
Upside down you turn me [Rob Sweere]Goahti [Victor Leurs]Some of the structures include the “Attic”, perched on top of stilts, the Norwegian-inspired “Goahti”, the “Ibc shrinkwrap” house made of rebar and construction wrap, and the funky “BEDBUG.”
BEDBUG [Franka te lintel hekkert – Ronnie kommene]Ibc shrinkwrap house [Refunc]Ibc shrinkwrap house [Refunc]The wonderful “Upside down you turn me” survival capsule has an elevated bed with dome windows that also offers protection from the rain. The Trampotent is a desert-style shelter topped by a trampoline. The elevated Universe 7 can turn with the sun.
Universe 7 [Robbert van der Horst]Trampotent [Vince Vijsma]Trampotent [Vince Vijsma]Carved from wood [Studio Plots]Carved from wood [Studio Plots]One of the most beautiful is the nondescript “Cut from wood” structure that looks like a plain box from the outside, but once you are inside the incoming light completely transforms the experience.
Tribal Toilet Tower [Atelier van Lieshout] Many of the structures have been made from recyclable materials and gleaned garbage and all act as functional bedrooms and living spaces. The Tribal Toilet Tower by Atelier Van Lieshout is a two-story building that includes the campground’s toilets, showers, compost and septic tanks. There are also outdoor communal areas and firepits. The nightly rates are around $95 per night.
