Sub-Arctic architecture in detail. Erskine’s disappearing architectural and constructional legacy in Kiruna

Abstract

ABSTRACT The focus of this article is the critical comparative analysis of three projects by Ralph Erskine realised between the 1950s and early 1960s in the municipality of Kiruna. The analysed projects offer the possibility to understand and discuss the extent to which architectural technology and typology could be developed for adapting modern design and ideals to the sub-Arctic climate conditions. Purpose of the presented research is the argumentation of the heritage value and conservation state of the selected designs in relation to Erskine's architectural vision. Considering that in the near future only one fragment of one of the three buildings will be preserved, the research contributes to passing on their legacy to future generations. The issues emerged from the attempt to assess the heritage value of the design and construction processes behind the buildings, stimulate further debate about the multiple perspectives of the practice of architectural conservation.