Scandinavian light.
Lazy summer rays seeping through a conifer’s branches. A grey reflexion from the silent snowbanks on a late winter afternoon; the soft hues from people’s homes letting their window light shine into the night. Light so soothing, and at certain times of the year so sparse that poets write songs about it.

Unlike other regions of the world, the Northern latitudes imply a longing for light, calling for specific solutions.

No doubt that the long, deep Scandinavian winter makes us more conscious about the quality of light. How we use it correctly - functionally as well as aesthetically, says Line Frier, architect at internationally renowned Friis & Moltke Architects.

In Scandinavia, we seek the light. As an architect you must work purposefully to integrate it, continues Line Frier. If we had ample amounts of natural light, we would do the opposite: try to close it off. But in Scandinavia, drawing light inside our homes is essential. We dwell on the natural fluidity it creates.

The right light builds warm, homely interiors that will comfort and embrace you.

How do you integrate the Scandinavian light in your architecture?

As a Scandinavian architect it is essential to know how to make the best possible use of daylight. It shapes our perception of a room. The Nordic daylight appeals to the senses and has a considerable aesthetic potential that is truly inspiring to work with.

Without light, no…

Poetry. You can draw a building in a very targeted manner to assure that shapes and materials catch the light in a specific way. Perhaps planning a certain interplay between sun and shadow. But in the final, architectural creation you might get surprised, see something interesting happening you didn’t draft. To me, the poetry lies in the way light suddenly can awaken a stunning detail.

Share a situation in which Scandinavian light played an important role to you?

Recently we had some days with quite dreary weather.
One morning, I rose before the sun did and went to the sea. I arrived at the shore just at dawn and for a few moments the sky was all salmon coloured. Everything was embraced by this warm, golden tone; it was spectacular. And, next thing, it was over. But I kept the magic vibe for days. We mustn’t forget how phenomenal Scandinavian light can be.

We must remember to celebrate it.