Reusing the past: Popular architecture in Golsfjellet summer mountain farm area

Abstract

Summer mountain farming tradition has created landscapes and vernacular architecture that are highly valued. This practice has declined and farmers are seeking new ways of making a supplementary income in tourism and second homes. In this article, we investigate the relationship between the
socio-economic tradition and the resulting physical form in these landscapes through an embedded case study. This study shows how a mountain region with an abundance of traditional rural resources has made modern adjustments to be able to reap the benefits of a steadily expanding tourist market. We analyse three examples of contemporary forms of re- traditionalisation in new construction of farmhouses and second homes where historical elements and references have been selected, transformed
and used in popular architecture. The three examples show the interdependency that exists today between the farming and the tourist
discourse, although the farmers have responded in different ways. All three farmers refer to past elements in their present day practice, but there is an evident difference in the way certain elements are highlighted and the way they connect to earlier practices. The building types are in the process of change. The reference to the old building heritage is important: e.g. the inclusion of the old building structure in new setting and the use of certain elements such as grass roof, log building and latticed windows. These elements are found in summer farm buildings, but the way they are used rather evokes the image of manor house, wealth and prestige. Thus a
new mountain second home style is created, also much appreciated and welcomed by the local people.