Gränslös : An architectural portrayal of Torne River Valley

Abstract: This project takes place in a place far north, in a valley that has three rivers. The place is called Torne River Valley or Meänmaa, meaning “Our land” in Meänkieli. The thesis will address the identity displacement in Torne River Valley and the destructiveness of the colonisation of Sápmi. It will explore the balance between nature and architecture by creating connections between history, place, people and culture. Our relationship to the landscape and how we (can) perceive it, as well as the landscape’s potential to innovate will be examined. Methods including literature studies, exploration of reference projects, communication with project friends, mapping and model making will be implemented. The concept of identity, narrative, heritage and agency of landscape related to architecture and place will be reflected. The historical and cultural context of the research site will also be studied to get to know and understand the place. The research is used to portrayal the cultural and natural heritage and identity of Torne River Valley in a region-wide design proposal. A series of five architectural and cultural landmarks are designed along the valley - from the the Gulf of Bothnia in the south to the Barent Sea in the north. The landmarks will be placed within the shifting landscape and carry different stories to tell. Inspired by the landscape, its forces and movement, the vernacular and the history of the place, the design was developed strategically. The idea of the architecture is not to make huge interventions or stereotypical visitor centres as we know them with gift shops, cafes etc. Instead, the architecture aims to poetically illustrate the characteristics, atmosphere and story of the place as it is. The architectural language is meant to be understood as an intersection between nature, art and architecture- intended to innovate and enrich, and to make us be aware and present on some different premises than we are used to. Finally, the vision of the project is to rebuild the regional family bond and unify the identity of the valley as a whole. To think beyond borders and be limitless - gränslös. The project also aims to build regional hope, confidence and pride. However, architecture can not save the world, but it can contribute to how we perceive, value and appreciate our environment. This thesis will be my way to bring out the narrative and tell the story of Torne River Valley, using architecture and space as my tool.