Studio Puisto
Studio Puisto has completed a rest stop on highway E75 (the major European road that starts in the Norwegian town of Vardø and runs south for 5,639 kilometres until it reaches Greece) in central Finland. Source: Designboom, images by Marc Goodwin
The rest stop comprises a gas station, a kitchen, restroom facilities, and a hotel, allowing weary travellers to unwind and take in the natural environment.
Situated next to a large pond bordering Lake Kolima, the service station embraces its setting with unobstructed views towards the water.
The main building, conceived by Studio Puisto as a buffer between traffic and nature, comprises 24 tree-like columns that evoke the feeling of being in a forest. Placed on an 8m x 8m grid, the columns support a huge canopy that curves upwards towards the road.
The roof shelters both the petrol station’s refueling area and the pedestrian zone around the building, with all supporting functions placed in black boxes.
Studio Puisto columns
The columns are made from locally sourced glued laminated timber, while internally, cross laminated timber walls further establish a serene and calming environment.
Ten hotel rooms are found on the second floor, with a sauna also provided to relax in after a long drive.
