Around the small town of Kautokeino, the magnificent mountain plateau stretches in every direction. The Sámi Science Center is set on a small hillside looking down on the centre of the town. The building is meant to reflect the Sámi traditions and in particular its attachment to nature. To ensure the Sámi Center is a representation of the local heritage the architects Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter AS and Sivilarkitekt Kirsti Knudsen AS decided to use a limited range of materials.
The rough and uncompromising shape of the Sámi Science Center is designed to reflect the nature around it. The design is based on simple geometric lines laid into a complex arrangement of rooms and functions. The cultural inspirations may be found in selected materials, symbols and forms. The use of solar control glass Pilkington Suncool™ 66/33 ensures a balance of overall energy efficiency and open perspectives. It is ideal for large areas of glazing to control solar heat gain whilst providing high levels of daylight.
Photography: Bent Raanes and Sarah Cameron Sørensen