Kotiousien

Kotiousien is a type of traditional Finnish wooden dwelling found primarily in the Åland Islands, a region of Finland located in the Baltic Sea. These wooden houses were traditionally used as primary residences, particularly in rural areas, and are characterized by their distinctive rectangular shape and sloping rooflines.

The construction of kotiousien typically involved the use of hand-hewn wooden beams, with roofs often being covered in rye or straw thatching. These traditional dwellings were built to withstand the harsh marine climate of the Åland Islands, with walls and floors designed to maintain warmth and dryness. The craftsmanship involved in building these houses resulted in structures that were remarkably durable and able to withstand the test of time.

Today, kotiousien can be found in various stages of restoration and preservation, reflecting the efforts made by local communities to maintain a connection to their cultural heritage. Efforts have been made to create architectural documentation and stone or bronze plaques describing the historic significance of individual structures. The preservation of these structures is seen as a key factor in promoting the unique architectural identity and cultural traditions of the Åland Islands.

As a result of cultural heritage preservation efforts, the characteristics and features of kotiousien are being studied and documented, including architectural history, technical and structural attributes, and the influence of cultural and environmental factors.