Swamp Hut in Newton, Massachussets by Moskow Linn Architects

The site is a ten acre swamp in Newton, MA of which only 1/8 of an acre is “buildable” by right. All construction materials were taken in by hand along a dirt path to minimize site disturbance. The Swamp Hut has no vehicular access.

Idea
The Swamp Hut is designed to sit lightly upon the land. Four huts surround a central deck creating a protective enclosure. Each building component has distinct characteristics appropriate to its use.

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

• Architects: Moskow Linn Architects Inc.
• Location: Newton, MA
• Materials
  • Structures: Wood (dimensional / plywood)
  • Roofs: Aluminum, translucent fiberglass
  • Connections: Galvanized steel
• Construction : The Swamp Hut is constructed of standard framing stock with nominal sizes to minimize waste. Huts measure 8’ x 12’. The central deck is 14’ x 14’. Trusses are 12’ high and are constructed of 2” x 4” members. The Swamp Hut is designed to be prefabricated.
• Cost: Materials: $7,500; Labor: $15,000; Kitchen / Bath (composting toilet / solar shower): forthcoming; Electrical (photovoltaics): forthcoming

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

Program
Create a structure to facilitate outdoor living and the appreciation of a swamp habitat.

Design
The Swamp Hut is divided into four components.

Cleansing Hut – positioned to the North the hut is the most enclosed with an aluminum roof. Within is a bathroom and kitchenette. Water will be heated by solar panels. Toilet will be composting. Photovoltaics will create electricity. The cleansing hut is the most enclosed of all structures.

Sleeping Huts – positioned to the East and West, the sleeping huts have translucent roofs. At morning, diffuse light filters through a translucent roof gently waking inhabitants. The sleeping huts accommodate a queen size cot or two cots.

Table Hut – positioned to the South, the hut is furnished with a table for eating and writing. This hut extends over the swamp and is the best location for wildlife observation. The hut has no roof. The 3’x 7’ table is for working, reading and eating. The structure, like an open dory, has no roof and the fauna laps against the sides. In inclement weather, a canvas fly may be rolled down.

Central Deck – surrounded by the huts the central deck is an outdoor room. Views of the landscape are through and around the huts. A raised fire drum is lit at night. Sparks twinkle up into the sky.

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

Site Plan

Aerial View of Site

Degrees of Enclosure

Plan

Table Hut

Cleansing Hut

Sleeping Hut - Concept Sketch

Sleeping Hut

Entry - Concept Sketch

Entry

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

The huts create a protective enclosure

21 - The Swamp Hut is composed of a kit of parts. All timber and sheathing are standard dimensions and sized to minimize waste

Details

Swamp hut was designed to be pre-fabricated

Construction pictures

Swamp Hut by Moskow Linn Architects

Category: House

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