The Hain Route is located in the stunning landscape of Torres del Paine, Chile, and focuses on the Hain initiation ceremony of the extinct Selk'nam people. Through careful design, the project highlights the cultural and spiritual significance of this ritual, allowing visitors to engage with the experiences of the Selk'nam youth, known as Kloketens. The concept connects the environment, spirituality, and heritage, creating a modern narrative that honors traditional customs.

Spatial Narrative

The layout of Hain Route is structured to guide visitors through a series of stations that represent important parts of the initiation process. Each segment of the path reflects a specific challenge that the Kloketens faced, facilitating a deeper understanding of their journey. Carefully organizing the route creates a sense of progression and allows visitors to experience an evolving connection with the surrounding nature.

Symbolic Elements

A key feature of the design is the Shoorts, which symbolize the spiritual figures integral to the Hain ceremony. Positioned throughout the route, these formations create a connection to the local environment and highlight the mystery associated with the Selk'nam culture. Their strategic placement prompts visitors to contemplate the deeper meanings behind the spirits, fostering a connection between the built environment and the cultural narrative.

Light and Shadow

The use of light and shadow plays an important role in enriching the visitor experience. As natural light moves through the spaces, it casts shifting shadows that interact with the Shoorts and the gathering area. This dynamic quality adds visual interest while enhancing the spiritual feeling of the landscape. The fire at the center serves as an inviting focal point, representing warmth and community. The light patterns symbolize the flow of knowledge and understanding that the initiation ceremony embodies.

Environmental Integration

The design thoughtfully considers the challenging climate of Torres del Paine, ensuring that visitors feel comfortable while appreciating the natural surroundings. By responding to the strong winds and varying temperatures, the structure finds balance with the landscape. This careful integration allows the design to support the educational and engagement goals of the project while keeping a focus on the connection to Selk'nam heritage within the natural world.

The area around the fire stands as the heart of the design, where visitors can gather to share thoughts and reflections. Surrounded by the Shoorts, the shifting shadows cast on the ground serve as reminders of the spirits' enduring presence. The presence of the fire invites engagement, fostering a shared experience that connects visitors to the stories of the Selk'nam, blending past and present in a meaningful way.