The Jetty Shelter

Hosting up to 4000 people, Camping Gampelen at Lake Neuchatel is one of Switzerland’s largest campsites. However, due to its location in a flood danger zone and its impact on the Grande Cariçaie nature reserve, a crucial area for a quarter of Switzerland’s flora and fauna, it will have to close by the end of 2024. The Jetty Shelter reverts to camping's original concept as a temporary, recreational activity, addressing current environmental challenges. It frees the ground and centralizes camping spots on a linear, elevated structure, functioning as a jetty stretching from the forest through meadows and reed belts up to the lake. This design allows people to experience nature without damaging it. Inspired by local historical «Palafitte» houses on stilts, the structure is resilient against floods and wetland conditions. In summer, like a butterfly spreading its wings, the shelter opens its lateral walls, creating platforms for sleeping and living close to nature. In autumn, the shelter closes its wings, transforming into an introverted birdwatching structure.