Pacific Island Fales

Pacific Island Fales

Fale is the Samoan word for all types of houses, from small to large. The architecture of Samoa is linked to its culture and the life of the Samoan people. Architectural design is about openness and links to other art forms in Samoa, such as boat building and tattooing. Pacific Island Fales are usually oval or circular shape with wooden posts holding up a domed roof. There are no walls.

Fale talimalo is a guest house and a fale fono is a meeting house where the chiefs meet. The exact size of the fales depends on the power and position of the families and village. Traditionally, no nails or screws were used anywhere in the building. Instead, coconut fibers are braided into rope to tie the beams together. The floor of the house is made from flat river stones.