Through The Archipelago

Stockholm archipelago has over the centuries been fairly unknown and anonymous place for many. Unless you were involved in fishing or trade you did not know much about this sea landscape.

Besides its commercial value it had also a military significance for a long period. During Gustav Vasa’s reign Vaxholm was decided to consolidate in order to protect the entrance to Stockholm by sea. Up until mid 20th century it was occupied mainly by fishermen and farmers. It was a place where people lived, studied and worked because of its natural riches. In the early 1900s more and more land was bought by rich Stockholmers for recreation purposes. A new typology has appeared on the islands, great summer villas. Even artists and writers were drawn to this place, including August Strindberg, Bruno Liljefors and Gustaf Fröding.

After WW II, the population in archipelago rapidly declined. It was mainly due to compulsory education. People were forced to seek places to settle on mainland where higher education facilities were located. It also offered a wider range of jobs.

The islands were slowly transformed from agricultural land into recreational resorts for the rich.

Nowadays, it is very popular summer holiday destination among Stockholmers and many others which is represented by 50 000 summer cottages that are spread out on many of the islands. It is becoming a luxury holiday destination with popular water sports and fast loud boats disturbing the natural habitat of archipelago.

The aim of this project is to better understand complex nature of Stockholm’s Archipelago, its inner working and relation between natural habitat and people. Through series of sensitive micro-interventions I would like to tell a story of archipelago, provide a “path“ to follow and explore this beautiful biotope. However, this should be achieved in meaningful and practical way. These small (temporary) structures range from a bench with a beautiful view of the sea, tree house library, public WC, floating sauna to a small desalination plant for residents as well as tourists.

The objective is to provide a sustainable future experience of the Stockholm archipelago as well as education and information regarding preservation and protection of the environment.

Keywords: naturum, archipelago, water, kayaking, Stockholm, Fejan, island, timber, nature, journey

Senaste arbeten