Norwegian architects create space for nature
Red House, left, from the “Lost in Nature” collection, is located in Oslo, Norway. The building has made a dramatic impression on the river valley. Provided by the Norwegian Embassy in Seoul
Perhaps it is the close proximity to the sea, or the majestic fjords, but Norwegian artists have long maintained a close connection to nature.
The stark beauty and sheer ingenuity of Norwegian architecture comes to life in the exhibit “Norwegian Contemporary Architecture,” which is now on view at Hongik University through April 23. It features dozens of pictures, blueprints and video clips of works created by two acclaimed Norwegian architecture firms.
“A country’s architecture is shaped by its history, economy and natural surroundings,” the Norwegian ambassador to Korea, Didrik Tønseth, said at the opening of the exhibition Monday. “Norwegian architecture is closely connected with nature.”
The exhibition, which is organized by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Seoul and the Hongik University School of Architecture, comprises two collections. The first, “Lost in Nature,” by Jarmund/Vigsnæs Architects, features works ranging from small cabins and houses to large educational facilities. The other collection, “Works 1995-2009,” by Jensen and Skodvin Architects, showcases facilities the firm has created for tourists, such as hotels, ferry terminals and mountain roads.
“This exhibit is unique because it is rare for two firms to appear in one exhibition,” the ambassador said. “The exhibit was shown in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, late last month on the occasion of an official visit by Norwegian royalty to Malaysia. But the Korea exhibit is the last time the two collections will appear in the same space. After the exhibition in Seoul, each collection will go to a different country.”
The Norwegian Contemporary Architecture exhibit, above, will be on display at Hongik University through April 23. By Park Sun-young
The Lost in Nature collection exhibits a selection of 16 completed projects, all of which deal with the challenges of and possibilities for how architecture can function within the natural environment of Scandinavia, which is marked by wild climactic and topological fluctuations.
“What is notable about Norwegian architecture is that [Norwegian architects] try to minimize the impact on the environment when they build something in it,” said Lee Hyun-ho, professor of architecture at Hongik University School of Architecture. “Through their designs, they seek harmony with nature and their materials are derived primarily from nature. Still, each one is able to maintain their individuality.”
Their design for the Svalbard Research Center is particularly striking. The center is located on the arctic archipelago of Svalbard at 78 degrees north, close to the North Pole and was designed to withstand the area’s extreme environmental conditions. The design reduces the amount of snow that builds up over the doors and windows. Furthermore, in order to prevent the transference of heat, which would melt the permanent frost below, the building is elevated on wooden poles.
“The bright, well-lit interior is designed to compensate for the long, dark winters in the Arctic region,” the Norwegian ambassador explained.
*The exhibit runs until April 23 at the Munheongwan building at Hongik University. It is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends. Admission is free. Go to Hongik University Station, line No. 2, exit 5.
Karl Otto Ellefsen, professor of Architecture and Urbanism and head of the Oslo School of Architecture and Design, is scheduled to speak on April 20 at 2 p.m. at Garam Hall in the fourth-level basement of the Hongmungwan building at the university. For more, contact the Norwegian Embassy at (02) 795-6850 or Hongik University School of Architecture at (02) 320-1106.
By Park Sun-young [spark0320@joongang.co.kr]
with the Korea JoongAng Daily
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