The proposal by reSET Architecture for the Klaksvík city center unites the two town halves and acts as a place of meeting, relaxation and celebration. Their design creates a place that represents the new born heart of Klaksvík. The architects believe that the city should be attractive to more than just the people of Klaksvík itself, a place that attracts people from the Faroer and abroad. More images and architects’ description after the break.
Today, Klaksvík is at a turning point. The town has strengthened its position as a regional center for work, culture and commerce. Having gradually developed predominantly alongside the mountain slopes in the course of the last century, the town is now reaching a population of 5000. It’s geological context has forced the town to grow into two parts, laid out along the height lines of the mountains, the streets and houses flank and overview the city’s natural harbor. The city’s urban structure resembles a honor guard; Klaksvík welcomes its guests! These two factors provoke the need for a true town center.
Many European cities have a history of organic development. Limited by their defense works, a dense urban tissue has developed over the years, characterized not predominantly by its buildings, but by the space in between. The organic city tissue has proven to be very flexible, showing the ability to programmatically change in time, without undergoing large structural modifications. Thanks to their dense character and almost completely enclosed public space, organic cities also offer protection to the elements by default. The built mass embraces the intimate public space and creates security for both inhabitants and visitors.
We create a contemporary town center by reverse organic development. This strategy results in a tissue that shares it spacial qualities with the “traditional” historic town center. What you get:
- an town center of unique character - spatial intimacy as a contrast to the magnificent but at the same time intimidating landscape - protection to the elements, especially wind, creation of a pleasant micro climates - integration of historical structures, both natural and cultural. - diversity in spatial quality and possibility of use - a place of maximum public interaction
Architects: reSET Architecture Location: Klaksvík, Faroe Islands Project Team: Theo Mathijssen, Erik Pennings Client: Klaksvík Town Municipality Type of Competition: Open International Competition Date: May 2012
