Harpa was inaugurated in May 2011. The main designers are Danish architectural firm Henning Larsen Architects and Icelandic architectural firm Batteríið Architects. The artist Ólafur Elíasson designed the glass facade in cooperation with the architects. Artec from New York was the acoustical designer and ÍAV of Iceland was the main contractor. With its unique features, Harpa is sure to become an icon in Reykjavík.
Harpa Concert Hall and Conference Centre is part of an extensive harbour development project in Reykjavik, the East Harbour Project. Harpa is owned by the city of Reykjavík and the state of Iceland. Preparation began in 2003, construction started in 2006 and Harpa opened in May 2011.
The design is inspired by basalt columns commonly found in Iceland utilizing a crystallised form with diverse colours. The main hall, Eldborg, was designed specifically for classical music but the emphasis was also on creating excellent facilities for all types of concerts and conferences. There are four main halls in Harpa as well as a variety of exhibition space and meeting rooms. Halls can be divided, allowing for multiple activities simultaneously. Harpa is the official home of the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera.
Verkís services was main consultant during preparation and planning and inhouse consultant until project completion, contract documents, assistance to and cooperation with Artec regarding sound and acoustical engineering, various specialized consulting services, design review and equipment approval for piping, ventilation, mechanical, and all electrical systems.
