ÁRTÚNSHÖFÐI AMALGAMA

Iceland | 2022

The project is inspired by the Icelandic idea “Landscape in Motion”, which reflects the ever-changing climate, time, seasons, and the varied natural landscapes of Iceland.

LOCATION

Ártúnshöfði

STATUS

Finished

TOPIC

Urban Landscape

OVERVIEW

Amalgama, metaphorically, represents the blending of different elements: a harmonious union of diverse components. As the title suggests, my intention is to create an urban environment characterized by variety and uniqueness, functioning as a cohesive, multi-layered system. 

Zooming into the area of Ártúnshöfði, visitors and residents often feel confined within its old, industrial and neglected landscape. To engage with nature, they must travel several kilometers, since the coastline does not encourage interaction, and public transport is lacking. Additionally, there are no safe walking routes, and the area lacks both residential spaces and public amenities.

Since Ártúnshöfði exists as an “urban outsider”, with social disconnection prevailing, my goal is to break this rigidity through experimentation, challenging strict zoning regulations, while still preserving planned spatial uses. Apart from a few centralized public spaces (e.g. a proposed renovation of a World War II structure into a museum), I primarily aim to create a mixed-use built environment. The goal is to create flexible spaces, not a mix of incomplete spatial functions. This proposal includes housing, workplaces, public spaces, commercial areas, and enclosed parking facilities, all scattered and blended together. There will be no distinction between higher or lower-priority areas; everything people need will be accessible within an 800-meter radius. All the existing buildings and functions are integrated into the new plan for the area.

Moreover, the new BRT line —tram line— will promote public transport, providing connectivity to the northeast and north-south neighborhoods. The construction of the proposed BRT line will require no additional landfill or bridges, as it is based on the existing topography.

Furthermore, the natural slopes of the land will be utilized for underground parking, entrances, staircases, and alternative activities. Green and blue infrastructure strategies such as water channels, small ponds, and courtyards with natural elements, will collect water for household use and enhance biodiversity. This approach will preserve the local environment while mitigating the effects of sea-level rise.

ÁRTÚNSHÖFÐI AMALGAMA

ORIGINAL SCALE 1:2000

ÁRTÚNSHÖFÐI SECTIONS

ORIGINAL SCALE 1:200