Čoarvemátta: A New Cultural Beacon in the Heart of Norway
In the vast, untamed expanse of Finnmarksvidda, Norway's largest and northernmost plateau, a new architectural landmark has emerged—Čoarvemátta. Nestled in Kautokeino, this shared facility houses The Sámi National Theater Beaivváš and the Sámi High School and Reindeer Herding School, two institutions central to preserving and promoting Sámi culture.The name Čoarvemátta is rooted in Sámi tradition, derived from the words čoarvi (horn) and mátta (root). Together, they reference the strongest part of a reindeer antler, a material integral to duodji, the traditional Sámi crafts and handiwork. This symbolism runs deep in the building’s design, reflecting strength, heritage, and a seamless connection to nature.
Designed by Snøhetta in collaboration with 70°N arkitektur, Econor, and artist Joar Nango, Čoarvemátta is a testament to architectural harmony with the environment. The two-storey structure sits low in the landscape, its proportions echoing the rolling hills and natural elevations of Finnmarksvidda. The roof slopes gently on both the north and south sides, minimizing the building's visual impact and creating an inviting entryway from the southwest. Natural materials like wood and stone anchor Čoarvemátta to its surroundings, while the building’s elongated, continuous form evokes the image of tools carved from reindeer antlers. The roof, pulled down to meet the ground, blurs the line between structure and terrain, allowing the facility to feel like an organic extension of the landscape itself.
Every side of Čoarvemátta engages with the surrounding environment, making it not just a building, but a living, breathing part of Sápmi’s cultural and natural tapestry. It stands as a powerful symbol of the Sámi people's enduring connection to their land, traditions, and future.
Credits:
Snøhetta
Frazier Springfield Photography
Fall ‘24