Geographical location is the determining factor in understanding the differences in construction between areas. Today we are going to know the characteristics of the Nordic and Mediterranean constructions. We will see how the climate influences the constructions and defines the style of each building.
Nordic style
Nordic construction is located in the northern regions of Europe. The climate in countries such as Denmark, Norway or Sweden is characterised by very cold winters and a lack of light during several months of the year.
Nordic design is conditioned by these two factors. Wood is the basis of construction in the northern European areas. Wood insulates against the cold and retains heat. The extensive Scandinavian forests provide a fast and economical supply.
Due to the lack of light, Nordic buildings have large interiors and large windows that are oriented to make the most of the sun’s hours.
Mediterranean style
The Mediterranean climate is mild, the summers are hot and the buildings are looking for freshness. The Mediterranean buildings give a lot of importance to the exteriors and to the use of the solar light.
It is common to find in Mediterranean homes terraces, gardens or interior patios. Raw materials vary a lot depending on the location, as it is a style that covers areas as different as Spain, Greece, Italy, North Africa or Turkey.
The predominant colour is white. The floors are usually made of light wood or hard and cold materials to balance the warmth of the temperatures.
The ceilings have exposed wooden beams and the Arab influence has left its mark in the form of open spaces with arch-shaped accesses.
The rounded tiles are characteristic of Mediterranean roofs, crowning facades full of balconies and open terraces to take advantage of sunlight.
