"A Thin Line Drawn Between Heaven and Earth" The Concept of Ecology in Sverre Fehn's Architecture

This study examines the ecological potential of the architectural construction over and against the nature. If we take the notion of the architectural construction as a creation of a built environment which consumes energy, water, and materials and emits solid, liquid, and gas contaminants we are already in the realm of counterbalance with the nature. From this standpoint, this study discusses the basic idea of Sverre Fehn's architectural thoughts on horizon. For him, the horizon examines the relation between building and landscape connecting both to earth and sky within human intervention. The horizon in this study will be used as modus operandi for achieving more "gentle" or environmentally appropriate design. In this process, this study analyzes the potential of ecology in Fehn's practice concerning the idea of horizon as the main guide for the design process. Moreover, the horizon is interpretation of culture, in this case architecture, which has a positive impact on the nature. From this notion of horizon, this study will discuss the basic premises of architectural ecology and how we approach design problems and their impact on environment. Examples for this idea of horizon are few Fehn's projects such as: the Archbishopric Museum of Hamar, Norway, Villa Busk in Bamble, Norway, and the Mauritzberg Vacation Center in Norrkoping, Sweden.