In this post of our winter blOAAg series, “Temporary Architecture: Pavilions, Structures and Follies,” we take a look at the winning “Warming Huts” installation entry by Toronto-based RAW Design.
From the Designers
Artist: RAW Design
Type: Public Art Installation
Information: http://www.warminghuts.com/
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Every year, Winnipeg hosts Warming Huts: An Art + Architecture Competition, which provides shelter for people enjoying themselves on the city’s frozen river in the dead of winter. The installations tend to vary from practical to completely unconventional, with their main purpose being to animate the Assiniboine River and provide delightful little nooks for skaters.
Winnipeg Warming Huts 2014: Nuzzles Conceptual Rendering
Image Credit: RAW Design
Design Credit: RAW Design
Winnipeg Warming Huts 2014: Nuzzles Conceptual Elevation
Image Credit: RAW Design
Design Credit: RAW Design
Winnipeg Warming Huts 2014: Nuzzles Assembly
Image Credit: RAW Design
Design Credit: RAW Design
Winnipeg Warming Huts 2014: Nuzzles Construction
Image Credit: RAW Design
Design Credit: RAW Design
These furry Nuzzles emerged from a desired to challenge the notion of the prototypical hut. Open to the elements, they still provide a sense of shelter, enticing kids and adults to snuggle in as they protect themselves from the wind. A nuzzle insulates them by trapping warm air close to their core. The bright colours of the pool noodles from which they are made stand out in the snowy surroundings, and their flexible forms invite interaction. People of all ages, especially children, are drawn to the sculptures and engage with them in every conceivable way: jumping into them, climbing on top of them and, of course, nuzzling with them.
Winnipeg Warming Huts 2014: Nuzzle
Image Credit: Jacob Shank
Design Credit: RAW Design
Winnipeg Warming Huts 2014: Nuzzles
Image Credit: Jacob Shank
Design Credit: RAW Design
The Nuzzles were built by an in-house fabrication team through the organizers and supervised by The Forks. For more information, visit
http://www.theforks.com/.