Architecture of Iceland
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The architecture of Iceland draws from Scandinavian influences and, traditionally, was influenced by the lack of native trees on the island. As a result, grass- and turf-covered houses were developed.
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[edit] History
[edit] Grasshouses
The original grasshouses constructed by the original settlers of Iceland were based on Viking longhouses. The main room of the house was known as the skáli, comprising of a central hearth and two raised platforms, known as set. Some houses may have included an additional living space, the stofa. This layout also incorporated a pantry and lavatory[1]. Over the years, the layout became more compartmentalised, eventually to include a baðstofa (a heated sauna room). In response to the colder Icelandic climate, the sleeping area was eventually moved into the baðstofa[1]. In around 1791, a gable-fronted design was proposed by Guðlaugur Sveinsson[1], which became widespread in the south of Iceland where the climate is warmer. Grasshouses are no longer constructed in Iceland, the few remaining examples are generally open to public.
[edit] Style
The architecture of Iceland is mainly low rise. Houses and smaller municipal buildings are wood-framed, which are then clad with wooden planks or corrugated metal. They are then painted in traditional bright colours[2].
[edit] References
- ^ a b c Icelandic Turf Structures. Retrieved on 2007-05-14.
- ^ Iceland Architecture. Retrieved on 2007-05-14.
