Flooring, paving, countertop
Saemien Sijte

Saemien Sijte
fūr arkitekter
2022
Nominated for Building of the Year 2022 and 2023
All flagstones and paving slabs (120 m²) can be fully dismantled and reused
Light Oppdal quartzite
Tiles, silk brushed, custom dimensions, t: 12 mm
Slab, silk brushed 530 x 2600 mm, t: 30 mm
Paving slabs, natural rustic, custom dimensions, t: 30 mm
Flagstones, medium/large, t: 30–40 mm
Installation: laid in loose bedding
Saemien Sijte is the national South Sámi museum and cultural centre, designed by fūr arkitekter and opened in 2022. Located by Snåsavatnet, the building combines local materials with references to South Sámi tradition and craftsmanship.
Light Oppdal quartzite is used for indoor flooring, outdoor areas, and countertops. The slate is laid in custom-designed patterns inspired by South Sámi ornamentation, including woven motifs in the floors and paving. Indoors, silk brushed tiles are used, while outdoors, the design features natural surface paving slabs and flagstones laid in loose bedding. The countertops are custom-sized and share the same surface treatment.
All outdoor slate is installed in a way that allows for full dismantling and reuse.
With a strong emphasis on local materials such as heartwood pine and slate, and the use of local craftsmen, the cultural centre is deeply rooted in both its environment and cultural context. The fireplace, clad in local slate, serves as a central gathering point for the community.