Heritage and history
The so-called gjenreisningshus were part of a government-led reconstruction of Norway after the destruction of war and were built after a relatively small number of standardized architectural designs. The reconstruction therefore also meant that that the northern part of the country was rebuilt in a uniform architectural style, which replaced other and more diverse building and living traditions.
When the German military retreated across North Norway, they conducted a ´scorched earth´ policy towards the end of WWII, destroying most of the homes, factories, and infrastructure. The post-war reconstruction of North Norway was centrally planned and resulted in modern buildings that were safe and comfortable but lacked the pre-war diversity. The historical records of what was built, where and when, are comprehensive. However, heritage research is needed to understand better how people now relate to the reconstruction buildings and the places in which they are located as part of their identities as individuals, families and communities. What are the architectural, aesthetic, landscape and cultural values that inform discussions and decisions on how to engage with the past and prepare for the future? These are some of the initial heritage research questions for the Northern Homes project.