Ormen Långe, Residential condominium in Svappavaara, Sweden
Ormen Långe is a residential complex in Svappavaara stretching about 200 meters with a curved design that opens toward the south. Large windows and outdoor balconies define the structure's layout.
Architect Ralph Erskine completed the building in 1965 as part of a development plan for the mining community of Svappavaara. After years of vacancy and water and frost damage, half the structure was demolished in 2010.
The building shows how designers thought about Arctic living by mixing shared spaces with strong protection from harsh northern winters.
The northern side of the building functions as a shield against winter storms, while the southern side captures maximum daylight through extensive glazing. Access can be difficult during extreme winter conditions, so caution is advised.
The building was specifically designed for the extreme Arctic conditions of the region and combines innovative design with practical solutions for harsh northern winters. This blend of form and function makes it a striking example of architecture adapted to severe environmental challenges.
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