suchaillou stone shelter embeds within rocky outcrop along santiago de compostela route

Shelter on Santiago de Compostela route embedded in stone

Suchaillou is a small shelter embedded within a rocky outcrop along the French section of the Santiago de Compostela route. The project is designed by the collaborative effort of Constance Guisset Studio, Derrière le Hublot, Pierre Sèche Haute-Loire, and Lucie Delmas. Referencing the surrounding geological formations, the structure is integrated into the natural terrain and positioned slightly off the main path to offer a discreet resting point within the landscape.

The shelter is constructed using dry-stone techniques and phonolite corbelling, drawing from local construction traditions and materials. Its creation involved a collaborative process that included regional artisans, such as François Januel and carpenter David Michel, as well as stone supplied by the Pertuis quarry. Additional contributions came from local residents, students from Yssingeaux Agricultural College, and municipal representatives.

all images by Vincent Leroux, DA Constance Guisset Studio

Stone, Light, and Sound form Suchaillou site-specific installation

Designed by Constance Guisset Studio, the interior accommodates two individuals, with integrated box seats that provide basic storage and shelter. A phonolite gong positioned at the rear of the space introduces an acoustic feature that responds to the stone’s sonic properties. A circular oculus made of shot-blasted glass above the entrance offers diffused daylight and framed views of the sky. The external setting supports public use with elements designed to enhance the experience of the landscape. Stone benches are integrated into the retaining walls, and a fountain, designed by artist Lucie Delmas, is positioned nearby. A cobbled pathway by Pierre Sèche Haute-Loire marked with a wave pattern leads visitors toward an orientation table, facilitating observation of the surrounding terrain.

Suchaillou is part of Fenêtres sur le paysage, an art trail coordinated by Derrière le Hublot in partnership with the Agence française des chemins de Compostelle. The project receives support from the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region, local municipalities, and European funding initiatives, including the European Regional Development Fund and the LEADER program.

a shelter embedded in a rocky outcrop along the Camino in Haute-Loire, France

Suchaillou offers a discreet stop along the Santiago de Compostela route

the structure is shaped by local geological forms and terrain

a phonolite gong designed by Lucie Delmas introduces an interactive acoustic feature

integrated box seats provide shelter and space for belongings

built using dry-stone techniques and traditional phonolite corbelling

shot-blasted glass oculus brings soft daylight and sky views

materials sourced from the Pertuis quarry reflect regional construction methods

regional artisans and students contributed to the building process

an orientation table invites observation of the surrounding terrain

Lucie Delmas designed a nearby fountain integrated into the site

the fountain is made using locally-sourced stones

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facade by night

Suchaillou road sign

construction process

construction process

construction process

construction process

construction process

construction process

project info:

name: Suchaillou
designers: Constance Guisset Studio | @constanceguisset, Derrière le Hublot | @derrierelehublot, Pierre Sèche Haute-Loire | @pierre_seche_haute_loire, Lucie Delmas

location: Santiago de Compostela route, France

photographer: Vincent Leroux, DA Constance Guisset Studio

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom