|
Greenland Architecture is very simple as Greenlanders live in simple structures such as collapsible seal-skin tent or sod homes. These are built from rocks, sod and driftwood. Sod homes, which were well suited to the nomadic life style of the Inuit people, were temporary buildings. Later they moved towards permanent structures.
The second phase of development of architecture in Greenland was marked by the Danish colonial period. They started making wooden clapboard homes with imported wood from Europe. These constructions were much more air-tight. But the bright colors like red, yellow, blue, green still gave a touch of tradition.
The people were moved into large apartment “blocks” by the Danish officials in 1960s. These hideous gray apartments resemble arctic slums. The largest apartment in Nuuk has the capacity to hold approximately 1% of Greenland's population alone.
Since 1980s more and more apartments started springing up in the larger cities. Though they have adapted older, colonial styles the traditional colors have given them a unique look. These colorful apartments have become Greenlandic trademark. Greenland National Theater, School of Arts and the Library reveal some of the great architectural works.
The streets of Greenland open up an opportunity for emerging Architectural practices, to design and build major temporary structure. The structure which was designed by OSA was a playful, temporary intervention drawn on the industrial heritage of the buildings and acts as a link to the arts center to the city. It also offers a cafe along with a resting place.
Greenland Architecture is extremely utilitarian.
|
