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Three Capes Track Cabins

The Lonely Planet named the Three Capes Track “one of the world’s hottest new experiences”. Conceived by JAWSARCHITECTS, the cabins at the three overnight sites provide welcome shelter for walkers tackling the Three Capes Track within the majestic Tasman Peninsula. JAWS worked closely with the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service to develop simple yet elegant fly-in shelters that sit lightly and effortlessly in this dramatic landscape. Adapting JAWS’ previous experience with prefabrication and transportable structures, the huts employ repeated and preassembled components. These components needed to be transported by helicopter in 800 kilogram loads, and then assembled ‘flat-pack style’ on-site by a small team of craftsmen. Bushfire considerations, off-grid power, water collection, bird strike, salt spray and physical protection of flora and fauna all needed to be considered and skilfully integrated into the design. Window seats with tilted glazing to reflect the ground (so birds won’t fly into windows), along with extensive use of bushfire resistant timbers, are just some of the design solutions employed. The result is a refined and unassuming insertion that nestles lightly in this raw and precious environment.

Architect

JAWSARCHITECTS

Contractors

Vos Construction and Joinery and AJR Construct

Consultants

Structural engineer – Aldanmark Consulting Engineers

Hydraulic engineer – Aldanmark Consulting Engineers

Building surveyor – Pitt & Sherry

Fire management strategy and emergency response plan – Eco Logical

Aboriginal and historic heritage assessments – Entura

Gas consultant – Engineering Solutions Tasmania

Quantity surveyor – WT Partnership

Prototype contractor – Island Workshop

Photographer

Brett Boardman

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