Igloos are dome-shaped shelters primarily constructed from hard-packed snow. Igloos were traditionally used as temporary shelters during hunting trips or emergencies in extremely cold environments. They offer insulation that keeps the interior temperature between 19°F (-7°C) and 61°F (16°C), even when outside temperatures drop below -49°F (-45°C). Inuit hunters would build igloos during winter travels away from their main camps, providing shelter through harsh Arctic nights. The design of igloos is characterized by their efficient dome shape, interlocking snow block construction, entrance tunnel, ventilation hole, and dug-out interior. These features are essential for insulation, ventilation, and structural stability. Despite the historical significance of igloos for the Inuit, they are no longer necessary for survival due to modern heating technologies. Some Inuit still build igloos for emergency shelter while hunting or traveling, and igloos have also become popular among non-Inuit as recreational winter shelters or even as hotels made of snow and ice. Igloos are admired for their architectural uniqueness and sustainability. They utilize locally available materials, such as snow and ice, with excellent insulating properties. The dome shape minimizes heat loss, and the ventilation hole regulates air quality and temperature. Living in an igloo has unique challenges, including managing extreme colds, dealing with moisture and condensation, and coping with confined spaces. Key rooms within an igloo, such as the main chamber, entrance tunnel, and ventilation hole, enable survival and relative comfort in freezing temperatures. Igloos are not a popular choice for homebuyers in most parts of the world. They are traditionally associated with Arctic indigenous cultures and unsuitable as permanent homes in non-Arctic climates. People generally prefer more conventional housing options with modern amenities and comfort. Pre-made garden igloos designed for backyard use typically range from $555 to $1,199 (€503 to €1,087, £436 to £943). These are often used as playhouses for children or as unique outdoor structures.
What is an igloo?
Igloos are dome-shaped shelters made of snow, built by the Inuit and other northern peoples as temporary shelters. They were used by hunting parties when away from permanent villages or as emergency shelters if people were caught out in storms. Igloos provide refuge in areas where temperatures can drop below -49°F (-45°C), with their insulating snow walls keeping the inside temperature between 19°F (-7°C) and 61°F (16°C). Igloos are associated with the frozen Arctic regions of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Siberia, where the Inuit and other northern tribes live. They can be built wherever there is enough snow but are most common above the Arctic Circle, where winter temperatures stay below freezing for months. Small 4.9 feet x 6.6 feet (1.5 meters x 2 meters) igloos were built as temporary shelters on hunting trips, while larger 11.5 feet x 14.8 feet (3.5 meters x 4.5 meters) igloos housed families in winter villages. Blocks of hard-packed snow are cut using a long knife to construct an igloo. Rectangular blocks around 2 feet x 4 feet x 0.66 feet (0.6 meters x 1.2 meters x 0.2 meters) are ideal. The first row is in a circle, with each block slightly angled inwards. Subsequent rows are built in a spiral pattern, closing up the top to form a dome with a small ventilation hole. Gaps between blocks are filled with loose snow, and the inside is smooth. The insulating properties of snow, allowing body heat and oil lamps to warm the interior, have made the igloo an essential historic shelter. In modern times, some northern builders preserve the art of igloo buildings, which are still used as emergency shelters.
What is the history of the igloo?
The Inuit and other northern peoples have used the igloo, also known as a snow house, for centuries as a temporary shelter. The word “igloo” comes from the Inuit word “igdlu” meaning “house.” Inuit hunters traditionally built igloos during winter when they traveled away from their main camps. They allowed the hunters to have shelter through frigid Arctic nights. Igloos are made by cutting snow into blocks and stacking them in a spiral pattern to form a dome. Snow knives made of bone and later metal were used to cut the blocks. The insulating properties of snow make the igloo a warm shelter, often 20-30 ℃ (68-86 ℉) warmer inside than outside. The warmth causes the inside snow surfaces to melt slightly, refreezing into ice and strengthening the walls. A small hole was left at the top to allow smoke from oil lamps to escape.
Igloos were once essential to Inuit survival during winter hunting trips, but the need has diminished with modern heating technologies; however, some Inuit continue to build igloos for emergency shelter while hunting or traveling. Igloos have also become popular among non-Inuit as recreational winter shelters or even hotels made of snow and ice. The largest igloo structure was erected at the Puvirnituq Snow Festival in Canada in 2005. Over 400 people worked together for a week to build an enormous igloo, standing over 16 feet (5 meters) tall with an interior accommodating over 400 people. Igloo is no longer an essential piece of Inuit life, and it remains an iconic symbol of indigenous ingenuity and survival in the harsh Arctic climate. The knowledge of how to build an igloo using only snow continues to be passed down as an essential cultural tradition among Inuit communities.
What architectural features define an igloo?
Igloos are architecturally defined by their features of efficient dome shape, interlocking snow block construction, entrance tunnel, ventilation hole, dug-out interior, and insulating properties. Firstly, igloos are dome-shaped structures typically made from hard snow or ice blocks. The dome shape gives igloos their distinct appearance and also provides structural integrity. As the blocks lean inward, they support each other, allowing the dome to stand without any additional framework. Secondly, the blocks are precisely cut to interlock tightly. Any gaps or holes would allow heat to escape. The blocks are polished smooth, sealing the interior from the outside elements. Thirdly, the entrance to an igloo is usually a narrow tunnel dug into the dome’s base. This helps prevent warm air from escaping when entering or exiting. Some igloos have an additional block placed over the entrance for further insulation. Fourthly, a small hole is left at the top of the dome, allowing smoke from oil lamps or cooking fires to ventilate. This ventilation hole can be adjusted to regulate airflow and temperature inside the igloo. Lastly, the inside floor is dug below ground level, creating a cold air trap. Since cold air sinks, this helps keep the living space warmer. Beds and sitting areas are placed on platforms above the lower floor. The inside can be warm despite the frigid temperatures outside. These features have made the igloo an iconic structure for Arctic peoples to find refuge from harsh winter climates.
What are the key characteristics of an igloo?
Listed below are the key characteristics of an igloo:
- Dome Shape: The dome shape of igloos is a key characteristic that makes them structurally solid and efficient at resisting snow loads. This unique self-supporting shape allows igloos to be constructed from individual blocks that lean against each other in a spiral pattern without requiring additional structural support. The dome architecture creates an enclosed space that can be heated effectively by body heat, oil lamps, and cooking. The dome shape minimizes surface area and reduces heat loss.
- Snow Block Construction: Another key characteristic is that igloos are built from rectangular blocks of hardened snow. Snow used for igloo construction must be wind-packed rather than soft, fresh snow for strength and insulation value. The snow blocks are stacked in a spiral, dome-shaped pattern, with each block cut at an angle so the joints lean inwards. The snow knife allows precision cutting of interlocking blocks. The snow blocks fuse together as they freeze, sealing the igloo and making it weatherproof.
- Warmth & Insulation: One of the most important characteristics of igloos is their ability to retain warmth, allowing humans to survive frigid Arctic temperatures. The thick snow walls act as natural insulation, trapping body heat inside. Snow’s air pockets prevent the conduction of exterior cold. The dome shape and snow construction minimize surface area and avoid heat loss to the cold exterior. Warmth from oil lamps or cooking also gets captured inside. The igloo protects inhabitants from wind chill, making the interior warmer than outside temperatures.
- Ice Window: Another unique characteristic of igloos is an ice window made from a transparent sheet of lake ice. Windows provide light inside the dim igloo interior. Rectangular or trapezoidal windows are cut into the igloo walls after construction. The ice window was also an emergency escape route if the igloo entrance tunnel became blocked. It also enabled igloo dwellers to check for approaching visitors or animals.
- Ventilation Hole: The ventilation hole at the crown of the igloo is another key characteristic that ensures the safety of its inhabitants. This hole escapes dangerous smoke, carbon dioxide, and moisture build-up. It provides constant air circulation, preventing suffocation and moisture accumulation that could destabilize the snow blocks. The hole vents smoke from oil lamps used for lighting and cooking. Proper ventilation regulates interior air quality and temperature.
- Entrance Tunnel: Most igloos have a narrow entrance tunnel leading into the central snow dome. This helps trap warmth inside the igloo while providing a wind and cold air buffer zone. The entrance passage tends to be long, low, and narrow to prevent heat from escaping whenever the igloo is accessed. These entranceways store supplies, tools, and extra clothing, protecting them from damage. Beds may be located in the entrance tunnel, benefiting from the warmth of the main chamber.
- Temporary Structure: The temporary structure of igloos is a defining trait and another key characteristic. Most are used for seasonal, short-term shelter only. In the summer, the Inuit used sealskin tents for warmth and protection. Igloos were built by hunting parties on the move or as emergency shelters. If left unoccupied, igloos slowly deform and collapse under their weight. Uninhabited, they can last several weeks, but most do not survive summer’s warmth.
- Inuit Design: The design of igloos is a testament to the ingenuity and ecological wisdom of the Inuit people. Igloos showcase their survival skills using only snow for a warm, weatherproof shelter. The design evolved over centuries to provide optimal protection from the Arctic climate. Igloos represent indigenous ingenuity and mastery over the most extreme conditions.
What design elements make an igloo a practical and desirable living space?
Several key design elements make the igloo a practical and desirable living space. These include its thermal insulation properties, ventilation system, tiered interior design, and sustainability. Firstly, igloos are designed to provide exceptional thermal insulation. They are constructed from hard snow bricks which trap air pockets, creating excellent insulation. Secondly, igloos have an effective ventilation system. A hole is built into the top of the wall near the entrance, which allows oxygen to circulate while preventing cold drafts from affecting occupants. This system provides enough airflow to avoid dangerous oxygen depletion. A small candle flame is also used to indicate safe oxygen levels. Thirdly, the upper platform is used for sleeping as heat rises, making this the warmest area. The lower platform provides space for storage and other tasks. These snow platforms are also covered with insulating branches, skins, and blankets to retain heat. This layered design maximizes warmth and comfort. Lastly, igloos utilize entirely sustainable materials for construction and insulation – snow, skins, and branches. Minimal environmental impact and energy usage make them a model for eco-friendly architecture. Their effective thermal properties also significantly reduce the heating requirements of the structure.
How are igloos designed for safety and comfort?
Three igloos are designed for safety and comfort, including structure and insulation, ventilation and air quality, and entrance design for wind protection. Firstly, the dome-shaped form of igloos provides remarkable strength and stability, allowing them to withstand strong winds and heavy snow loads. The snow is excellent insulation, trapping body heat inside while blocking icy winds. Secondly, proper ventilation and air quality are critical for health and safety inside the confined igloo space. Small holes cut into the top of the dome allow smoke from fires to escape and prevent dangerous buildup of carbon dioxide. Air vents facilitate continual airflow to bring in fresh, oxygenated air. Lastly, the entranceway design with low, right-angled tunnels protects against direct wind flow into the living space. Doors are intentionally offset at the bottom of the structure so that frigid outside air falls and stays near the entrance rather than circulating throughout. This entrance positioning takes advantage of convection currents, trapping rising warm air inside while preventing gusts of freezing wind from blowing into the inhabited parts of the igloo. These designs combine correctly, and igloos become livable shelters despite the extreme Arctic cold.
What sustainable living principles are integrated into the igloo?
Several sustainable igloo designs combine renewable building materials like snow, energy-efficient heating/cooling systems, and mindful placement. Firstly, igloos utilize snow and ice, which are naturally abundant resources in Arctic environments. Snow’s excellent insulating properties enable the maintenance of comfortable temperatures inside the igloo. Building with snow has a shallow carbon footprint compared to other building materials. Some modern igloos also incorporate sustainable wood that breathes and absorbs CO2. Secondly, energy-efficient heating and electricity systems are integrated into sustainable igloo designs. Passive solar energy can be captured through panels installed on the roof to provide supplemental heat and power. Many also utilize geothermal energy systems for efficient heating and air heat pumps for ventilation and temperature regulation. The use of green energy sources significantly reduces an igloo’s environmental impact. Lastly, careful site selection, adequate insulation, and conscientious resource usage enable minimal disturbance to the surrounding Arctic habitat. The exceptional insulating properties of a well-constructed igloo prevent heat loss and energy waste.
What unique challenges come with living in an Igloo?
There are several unique challenges of living in an igloo, including managing the cold, handling moisture and condensation issues, and coping with confined spaces. Firstly, despite their impressive insulating properties, igloos can get extremely cold when body heat diminishes at night. Temperatures may plunge well below freezing inside the shelter. The cold also complicates essential functions like cooking food or melting drinking water. Secondly, moisture buildup and condensation present problems in the enclosed igloo space. Water droplets form on the inner ice walls and can soak bedding while opening the entrance tunnel lets in the more freezing air. Careful ventilation is required via small holes poked in the ceiling. Lastly, the confined quarters of an igloo pose unique social and health issues. Limited space strains other activities for multiple occupants. Lack of privacy and restrictions on movement can increase tensions.
What are the key rooms when living in an igloo?
A few key rooms enable comfortable living despite the extreme cold. Firstly, the main chamber or living area is the largest room. It houses sleeping platforms made of compacted snow and covered with insulating furs and a shallow lamp filled with seal blubber to provide heat and light. Secondly, a narrow entrance tunnel leads into the igloo, with storage vaults on the sides. This helps block wind while trapping rising warm air inside. Thirdly, small ventilation holes poked into the ceiling facilitate air circulation and prevent a dangerous buildup of carbon dioxide. Lastly, some larger igloos designed for multiple families incorporate other specialized rooms akin to modern homes. Separate spaces for cooking food, caring for dogs, sewing and repairing gear, dancing, singing, or storage may branch off the main chamber. Up to 10 adjoining domed units, each serving a different function, have been documented in some Inuit igloo communities. The key rooms enable survival and relative comfort inside an igloo despite below-freezing temperatures.
What historical and cultural significance does the igloo have?
The igloo, known as an “iglu” in the Inuktitut language, has been a vital shelter for the Inuit people for hundreds of years across the Arctic regions of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, and Siberia and constructed from rugged, compacted snow as a dome, the igloo protected from the harsh Arctic winters. Inuit families would build igloos as temporary shelters while traveling and hunting during the winter months. Larger igloos were sometimes constructed to accommodate up to 20 people for community gatherings. Igloos were essential for the Inuit’s survival and served as the center of social life during the long winter months. Permanent homes have replaced igloos for most Inuit communities today, and many northern settlements and towns across the Arctic still hold annual igloo-building festivals and competitions. These events celebrate the ingenuity of the igloo structure and Inuit culture and history. For many Inuit, the endurance of the igloo over centuries is a powerful symbol of resilience and adaptation in one of the harshest environments on Earth. The creation of the igloo exemplifies human creativity and innovation through the use of available materials. The practical yet iconic igloo structure remains a culturally vital landmark of Arctic indigenous life.
What is the most common architectural style for an igloo?
Igloos are considered a contemporary vernacular architecture style because they utilize local indigenous knowledge and materials to create structures adapted to the freezing Arctic climate. Vernacular architecture refers to typical domestic buildings specific to a region or culture, designed to meet local needs using local construction methods and resources. The Inuit and other Arctic peoples have developed the igloo form over centuries of living in icy conditions. Igloos represent a building style to Inuit culture and the Arctic landscape, exemplifying the critical principles of vernacular design. This reliance on readily available local materials also aligns with definitions of vernacular architecture. Contemporary igloo-inspired structures utilize the traditional domed shape and insulation principles in modern forms.
What design innovations are seen in igloos?
Several igloo innovations span construction techniques for faster building, materials beyond snow, repurposing as hospitality and leisure spaces, and integrating new technologies for virtual experiences. Firstly, igloos are innovative construction techniques for building igloos and snow shelters. Igloos were made by Inuit people using snow blocks cut with tools like snow knives and arranged in a dome shape. Modern innovations allow building igloos faster, such as using snow brick molds to make standardized bricks quickly. New materials like foam mattresses or survival blankets can be used instead of snowblocks. Secondly, innovations in igloo materials have expanded beyond just snow. Modern igloos filter water through glass, cement, wood, or plants. The Bibligloo igloo art installation used living plants and bacteria to filter water like a natural wetland. Using alternative materials allows for making igloos in warmer climates or for artistic purposes beyond shelter. Lastly, technological innovations have also allowed for new igloo-based virtual and augmented reality environments. Innovations like Igloo Vision utilize 360-degree displays within igloo domes to create shared immersive spaces for collaboration, data visualizations, or entertainment. Further innovations in VR and AR could enhance these virtual igloo experiences.
What materials are mostly used to build an igloo?
There are few materials to build an igloo. Firstly, the primary material used is hard-packed or crusted snow that can be cut into blocks. Snow must be dense enough to be molded into bricks, typically using tools like rectangular molds, buckets, or shovels. Enough snow is needed to build the complete igloo structure, often over a foot deep across the building area. Secondly, modern igloos sometimes incorporate alternative materials like ice blocks, wood planks, cardboard boxes covered in snow, or even materials like glass, foam mattresses, and survival blankets. Using non-traditional materials allows making igloos in warmer climates or for more artistic purposes. Materials like foam, blankets, or vegetation can also help insulate the inside. Thirdly, essential tools for building igloos include shovels for moving snow, saws or knives for cutting out standardized brick shapes and shaping tools like molds or frames. Specialized tools like the ICEBOX igloo builder use a three-sided box on a pole to construct spiral igloos block by block. Lastly, the construction technique is an important consideration in igloo building. The main methods are stacking pre-cut snow blocks, using an igloo builder tool to make bricks in place, or piling snow over a mound and carving out the inside shelter. Igloo innovations have expanded possible materials and techniques to adapt the igloo structure to various contexts.
Is an igloo a popular choice for homebuyers?
No, igloos are not a popular choice for homebuyers in most parts of the world. Igloos are traditionally associated with Inuit and other indigenous cultures in the Arctic, where they are used as temporary shelters for hunting and fishing. In most residential areas, igloos are unsuitable as permanent homes due to their construction materials and design, which are unsuited to non-Arctic climates. People typically prefer more conventional housing options, such as houses, apartments, and condominiums, that provide modern amenities and comfort. Igloos are becoming less viable or practical for them as permanent shelters.
What makes igloo appealing to homebuyers?
Igloos appeal to homebuyers through their design, energy efficiency, four-season usability, versatile entertaining space, and potential for unique natural experiences right at home. Firstly, igloos offer a unique visual that stands out from typical backyard structures. Their dome shape creates an inviting, cozy interior space while making a bold architectural statement outside. This appeals to homebuyers looking to add character and a conversation piece to their property. Secondly, igloos are energy-efficient and sustainable. Their thick insulating walls retain heat exceptionally well to keep the interior warm with minimal energy use. An igloo can maintain comfortable temperatures using body heat and a small heat source. Their sustainability and low environmental impact appeal to eco-conscious homebuyers. Thirdly, igloos allow the creation of a usable backyard space year-round, protected from the elements. Homebuyers can enjoy outdoor living in an igloo no matter the weather, with protection from wind, rain, snow, and cold. Lastly, igloos provide a flexible entertaining and leisure space.
What is the best audience to live in an igloo?
The best audience for igloos were the Inuit and other indigenous Arctic peoples, who built temporary snow igloos while hunting to provide shelter. Modern Arctic tourism has created a new audience for temporary igloo stays. Adventurous travelers seek the unique experience of sleeping in an igloo during Northern Lights tours or other Arctic excursions. Igloo hotels cater to this audience by providing basic overnight accommodation plus Aurora viewing. Children and families can also appreciate igloo experiences closer to home. Many science museums feature an indoor snow igloo that kids can enter and even sometimes build themselves with plastic mold bricks. Outdoor public winter festivals may also incorporate building snow structures. Igloo appeals to families, children, architects, and anyone seeking an extraordinary structure merging sustainability, creativity, and protection from the elements.
What is the typical price to buy an igloo?
An igloo is a shelter made of snow, traditionally built by the Inuit people. As they are made of freely available snow, there is no “typical price” to buy a pre-made igloo. Some companies sell igloo playhouses for children as backyard play structures. These are plastic molded structures designed to look like igloos, though they do not serve the same insulating function as a snow igloo. Prices for pre-made garden igloos range from $555 to $1,199 (€503 to €1,087, £436 to £943).
Is it cheaper to construct or buy an igloo?
Yes, it is generally much cheaper to construct an igloo rather than to buy a pre-made one. The primary materials needed to build an igloo are snow, a snow saw or regular carpenter’s saw, a shovel, and waterproof gloves, which most people already have or can quickly obtain. The snow itself is free. In contrast, pre-made garden igloos range from $555 to $1,199 (€503 to €1,087, £436 to £943). More advanced techniques, like using an Icebox Igloo Tool kit, can speed up construction; however, this kit costs $245 (€222, £192). There are also DIY options for making snow brick molds out of wood for about $5 (€4, £3).
Which type of architect is best to design an igloo?
A sustainable architect is the type of architect who is best at designing an igloo. Sustainable architects focus on creating structures optimized for their environment using local, natural materials with minimal ecological impact. These priorities align well with the design principles behind the igloo. Igloos leverage the unique properties of snow to create insulating shelters, keeping interiors warmer than outside. Snow’s air pockets trap heat, and the dome shape has a low surface area to volume ratio, reducing heat loss. Sustainable architects understand leveraging natural insulation properties in structural design. They can be quickly constructed and decomposed back into the environment. Sustainable architects aim to use local, non-toxic materials with low embodied energy.
