ARCHITECTURAL FOCUS
The entire construction and operational process follows environmentally responsible practices, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. All materials were carefully selected for their low maintenance requirements— eliminating the need for outdoor maintenance and allowing for natural weathering without compromising durability.
BREEAM certification The building was fully designed and constructed according to the international BREEAM certification standard, which emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility. Environmentally friendly materials were used throughout, and all construction waste was carefully minimized, measured, and monitored. Strict environmental requirements were also enforced on the contractor for the duration of the project. Furthermore, all wood used in the building is FSC-certified, ensuring that it is responsibly sourced and fully traceable throughout the production process.
New approach to building design One of the main goals in designing the building at this location was that it could be constructed with as little disturbance as possible, and that it would feel as though it had landed there fully formed, without any disruption. To achieve this, the design included a part of the building that hovers over the edge of the lava field. This required a new approach to building design in an earthquake-prone area, which places high demands on the structural system— especially when dealing with cantilevered structures, which are very challenging.
The design concept is inspired by the surrounding nature, and is divided into two distinct sections called Glacier Cape and Fishbone. One section is a work facility for the national park staff, and the other contains an exhibition space, café, and lecture facilities.
BREEAM also addresses the connection between building and broader social factors, including the local environment, transportation, and innovative solutions that enhance building quality and sustainability. The National Park Visitor Center reflects these principles with well-developed walking and cycling paths that connect the center to the surrounding park. The building is accessible from both sides, with a pathway running directly through its center, integrating pedestrian access seamlessly into the design.
Technical sheet Project title: Visitor center in Hellisandur Address: Sandahraun 5, 360 Hellissandur, Iceland Competition: 1st. prize in an open competition Building size: 710 m2 Function: Visitor center in Snæfellsnes / Hellissandur Architects: Arkís arkitektar, Vesturvör 7, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland Owner / client: The State Construction Agency Location: N64 ° 54’ 49.465” W23 ° 53’ 21.027 Photographer: Karl Vilhjálmsson Awards: 1st prize in an open competition
www. arkis. is
The exterior walls of the building are clad in two different types of timber cladding: on the Glacier Cape part, there is horizontal timber cladding, and on the Fishbone part of the building, there is vertical timber cladding.
A pathway runs through the center, allowing visitors to walk directly through the building from one side to the other. Stairs on both sides of the building lead up to the rooftop observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Snæfellsjökull glacier and the village Hellisandur.
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