MORPHOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF SETTLEMENTS IN THE ARCTIC: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF FOUR SETTLEMENTS WITH DIVERGING IDEOLOGIES ON SVALBARD

Abstract

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard contains the northernmost permanently inhabited settlements in the Arctic region. In this inquiry, comprehensive morphological analyses are made of the street network configuration, urban form and the functional distribution pattern to reveal the differences in four settlements built under the influence of two opposing political ideologies. The spatial tools used are Space Syntax and the Mixed-Use Index. The theory of the natural urban transformation process suggests that the spatial configuration of the street network guides urban developments. Along well-integrated streets, the building density and the mix of public functions tends to be higher than along segregated streets, which tend to be more monofunctional. The analysis reveals that political ideology influences the types and distribution pattern of building functions and types of artefacts. In capitalistic/liberated economy types of settlements, public functions along well-integrated streets consist of commercial facilities such as shops, bars, restaurants, Vinmonopolet (alcohol sales point), offices, educational, governmental and cultural institutions. Since commercial functions are lacking in (former) communistic/state-controlled economy types of settlements, it is housing, cultural and social facilities and Lenin’s statue that are located along the most highly integrated streets.