GORK JOURNAL

Five Principles of Scandinavian Architecture

Arch: Fearon Hay
Project: Matagouri
Photo: Simon Wilson
Geo: Wakatipu lake, NZ


The asceticism of Scandinavian countries' architecture is always softened by the surrounding nature. You will find many such examples in the magazine. Some claim that this direction emerged about a hundred years ago. However, if modern technologies are set aside, conceptually, the construction principles in this region have remained unchanged for centuries. This is not about cities, where there was a lot of borrowing from Central Europe, but about villages scattered across the rocky terrain and individual cottages.

I would highlight 5 main principles:

  1. Connection with nature: buildings harmoniously blend into the surrounding landscape through the use of natural materials.
  2. Functionality: every element of the building serves a specific practical purpose.
  3. Simplicity: clean lines and minimalist design form the basis of the compositional structure.
  4. Work with light and color: large windows and light tones are used to expand space.
  5. Sustainability: buildings are designed to withstand harsh climatic conditions and minimize environmental impact.

Scandinavian architecture is well-suited for our region. And it’s not just about geographically similar Murmansk (although more of such architecture wouldn’t hurt there), but about any natural and especially protected locations. A good example is today’s project in New Zealand. It would also look wonderful in Oslo, Teriberka, and Dagestan.

PS While writing the text, I remembered an interesting movie about an artist who lived in such a house towards the end of his life. It’s called "Masterpiece" by Gaston Duprat. I recommend it.)

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