Architecture of Nauru
Architecture in Nauru is very limited. Traditionally, there
was no construction other than housing and their housing was simple in design. These
traditional houses were made of wood, with supportive beams, and thatched roofs
made of leaves.
Even with the arrival of the Europeans little changed at
first. Materials and techniques made the housing sturdier, but designs changed little.
The Europeans also introduced new structures, such as churches, which were primarily
built in the European style. They also brought in buildings to help mine, transport,
and ship the phosphate. Sadly these buildings were simple in design as their only
function was to make money.
As wealth expanded in the country so too did the housing. Sadly, design elements
were often left out of these houses; the materials used changed as they began to
build concrete brick buildings, which now make up many houses on the island today.
Despite the simplicity and lack of design on many buildings, many others have incorporated
design elements, especially during the time of great wealth with the phosphate mining.