The architecture of Iceland draws from Scandinavian influences and, traditionally, was influenced by the lack of nativetrees on the island. As a result, grass- and turf-covered houses were developed.
The original grasshouses constructed by the original settlers of Iceland were based on Vikinglonghouses. The main room of the house was known as the skáli, comprising of a central hearth and two raised platforms, known as set. Some houses may have included an additional living space, the stofa. This layout also incorporated a pantry and lavatory1. Over the years, the layout became more compartmentalised, eventually to include a baðstofa (a heated sauna room). In response to the colder Icelandic climate, the sleeping area was eventually moved into the baðstofa1. In around 1791, a gable-fronted design was proposed by Guðlaugur Sveinsson1, which became widespread in the south of Iceland where the climate is warmer. Grasshouses are no longer constructed in Iceland, the few remaining examples are generally open to public.
Style
The architecture of Iceland is mainly low rise. Houses and smaller municipal buildings are wood-framed, which are then clad with woodenplanks or corrugated metal. They are then painted in traditional bright colours2.
