naturum Härön; a contemporary architectural anchoring of Bohuslän’s typology
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Författare
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Modellbyggare
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Sammanfattning
Architecture creates a dialogue between nature and culture, where understanding
and interpreting the site is fundamental. Through this interplay,
contemporary architecture can strengthen a place’s identity, interact with
nature and communicate its history. This involves identifying characteristic
elements both in building typologies and traditions as well as in the landscape
and local climate.
The site explored in this thesis is located on the island of Härön, just off the
coast of Tjörn in Bohuslän, Sweden. The majority of Härön is protected as
a nature reserve. The aim of this master’s thesis was to apply theories on
how architecture can be rooted in place in a contemporary manner and to
translate this into a design proposal for a Naturum, a visitor center for the
nature reserve, including a separate kayak shelter. Central to the design is
the exposure of timber framing, a traditional local timber technique historically
used for barns (magasin). By anchoring the architecture in the site’s
history and building traditions, the thesis presents a proposal that communicates
knowledge about the area’s culture and nature, while also reflecting
a conscious approach to climate awareness through its function, material
choices and contextual adaptation.
The work was divided into two stages: research for design and research by
design. The first phase focused on theory-based research, where Critical
Regionalism and Genius Loci formed the foundation for an in-depth site
analysis and the identification of Härön’s identity. These theories also influenced
the multiple site visits conducted on the island. To further understand
the design and function of Naturum, site visits were made to existing Naturum
buildings, and interviews were conducted with field specialists. Based
on this theoretical foundation, an iterative design proposal was developed.
With a strong connection to place and history, the goal was to explore the
balance between past and present. Architecture that respected its natural
surroundings, both through its design and function as a Naturum. Anchored
in the local context, the project was discussed in terms of how it contributes
to strengthening the site’s identity and bridging history with the present. The
thesis contributes to a broader dialogue on how contemporary architecture
can connect to history without becoming nostalgic.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Timber framing; Critical Regionalism; Naturum; Härön