BORGUND STAVE CHURCH DOWN TO SCALE

Built around 1180 and is dedicated to the Apostle Andrew. The church is exceptionally well preserved and is one of the most distinctive stave churches in Norway. Some of the finest features are the lavishly carved portals and the roof carvings of dragons's heads. The stavchurches are Norway's most important contribution to world architecture and Norway's oldest preserved timber buildings.

Description from:  http://www.visitnorway.com/en/Product/?pid=47214

As a first year history assignment we were given the choice to do one of four possible tasks. The project required annotated drawings, 3D digital model, essay, and a physical model. I saw this as the opportunity to add something physical to my architectural portfolio. I chose the physical model of one of the most challenging structures that were presented to us. The Borgund Stave church fit that description, plus not ever hearing about this historic church in Norway, thought it would give me the chance to learn something new.

The Church took 100hours to build and was entirely constructed with balsa wood, at a 1:75 scale. This scale may seem odd but it fit the appropriate measures for the project. Recovering working drawings were very difficult to attain and after contacting numerous sources in Norway, I was left with a plan with no dimensions and a axonometric section through the church. These were the only references I had so excuse me if it is not exactly what the church appears. 

For more see: www.brandonmscott.com