One of the most interesting things about architecture is having the chance to see how it evolves over time. You can see this best in cities if you look at the contrast between old sections, new districts, and areas that have had regeneration or gentrification. Kiruna in Sweden has become a really incredible story in the last decade because of plans to move it. We want to have a closer look here, then you can speak to us if you want to work with top architects in London.
History
Kiruna dates back to the 1890s, although the original city plan is from 1900 and it did not get its charter until after WW2. It is the most northerly Swedish city, and is quite popular with tourists in winter who want to visit Lapland, enjoy outdoor activities, and chase the Northern Lights.
Interestingly, Kiruna was established because of the large deposits of iron ore in the area. LKAB, the state owned mining company, handles operations. Before the development of the city plan, the area had disorganised homes, slums, and provisional buildings, giving it a Wild West feel. However, the development of the formal city saw their replacement.
Notably, the city planners were careful to consider the climate and geography in Kiruna, ensuring winter temperatures are milder and addressing the wind. These are still important things for experts to think about today, especially for architects in London like us.
Initially Kiruna was a modest city home to less than 7,500 people in 1910. Amazingly, the only way to access it at first was by boat in summer or rail. Road connections were built at the start of the 20th century. Today it has grown and has over 22,000 residents.
Moving
The most amazing thing about Kiruna is there have been plans to move it since the early 2000s. Mining activities are causing issues with subsidence. So, a process of gradual relocation is underway, including moving the town centre and some major landmarks. The project got underway in 2014.
In the last few days we’ve seen one of the most exciting parts of the relocation project. The 1912 church, one of the city’s major landmarks, has travelled to a new home. There was an amazing engineering feat to lift the 672 tonne building on to steel beams. It then made the five kilometre journey by road, travelling at a steady 0.5km/h. The church’s separate bell tower will make the trip in the coming days too.
Incredibly, the project to move the church will minimise damage. The method was chosen instead of dismantling and relocating it. It took a huge amount of planning and the skills of Norwegian experts Veidekke to accomplish it.
Talk to architects in London about any innovative projects
The idea of moving a city may be hard to imagine. However, there have been many amazing projects all around the world over the years. This includes moving notable landmarks to preserve them or allow regeneration. There have even been some in the UK.
If you’re planning a project, whether it is new build or regeneration, we would love the opportunity to work with you. Coffey Architects is the perfect sounding board for all kinds of ideas. We can explore them and see what is feasible. More importantly, we can work to adapt them and create a fantastic plan.
So, get in touch today if you want help from leading architects in London. You’re welcome to ask us any questions, including about our philosophies and green credentials.