Rest-stop Hereiane
The construction required a high level of craftsmanship and was a challenge even to the skilled local builders who put their heart into the construction-work, transforming their
scepticism into enthusiasm.
The rest stop at Hereiane is situated near the main road that leads along the hillsides of the Hardanger fjord, on the west coast of Norway. Beside the fjord-landscape the region is famous for its traditional architecture and hilly cherry- and apple orchards. Hereiane is located 20 minutes from Jondal on top of a big slope of massive rock, which leads all the way down to the water.
The use of stone slate for walls and roofing has a long tradition in the region. The geometry of the building reflects the traditional sloped roof, but the walls is slightly angled, creating a disharmonious geometry. The construction required a high level of craftsmanship since every stone had to be cut in specific angles.
The walls are constructed entirely from slate-blocks. The cut side of the stone facing outwards generates a compact, smooth surface, which makes you want to touch the building. As a contrast to this the inside is kept as rough split stone.
The platform with its sitting element and the inner walls and roof are made from concrete and coated with a bright yellow surface. The color helps to balance the heaviness off the building, brightening up the site on rainy days and has become part of the buildings identity.
