Blue Lagoon

The lagoon was initially formed by refuse water from the Svartsengi geothermal power plant and today a 800 m long pipeline carries the 160°C geothermal brine underground from the plant to the current location of the lagoon. The Blue Lagoon is kept at constant temperature thanks to mixing and distribution centers on the lagoon.

In 2003-2004 several additions were made, including new massage rooms, saunas and a waterfall, and in 2005-2007, due to heavy demand, further extensions were made. During this period the Blue Lagoon Psoriasis Clinic, consisting of a small lagoon and associated facilities, was also launched. The Blue Lagoon now includes several facilities, such as a restaurant, meeting and conference rooms and shops. Health and beauty products are also produced from the geothermal sea water and a pipe has been laid from the power plant for this specific purpose. The visitor center is partly served by a natural ventilation system as well as mechanical ventilation. The buildings are mostly heated by floor-heating supplemented with the mechanical ventilation system in critical areas. The whole building is also equipped with a sprinkler system.

The lighting design by Verkís at the Blue Lagoon has been acclaimed by many specialists and was awarded the “Nordic Lighting Awards” in 2006 for bringing out the building architecture and creating a comfortable environment.

Verkís services was project planning, conceptual and detail design, preparation of tender documents, material procurement and supervision of construction. Ventilation systems, piping systems: heating, snow-melting, domestic and waste water, electrical installations, lighting design and structural design.

The Challenge

The Blue Lagoon was developed to transform geothermal by-products from the Svartsengi Power Plant into a world-class wellness destination. As the facility expanded to meet growing international demand, the challenge was to deliver complex engineering solutions that supported new buildings, spa facilities and technical systems while preserving the lagoon’s unique natural environment and visitor experience.

Our Solution

Verkís provided multidisciplinary engineering services throughout the planning, design and expansion of the Blue Lagoon. Our work included project planning, structural engineering, mechanical and electrical design, ventilation, heating and piping systems, snow melting, lighting design, tender documentation, procurement support and construction supervision. The integrated engineering solutions ensured efficient operation of the geothermal systems while supporting continuous development of the resort.

The Result

Today, the Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most iconic attractions and one of the world’s leading geothermal spas. Through decades of engineering expertise, Verkís has helped create a sustainable, energy-efficient destination that combines innovative geothermal technology with exceptional architecture and visitor experiences. The project’s lighting design also received the Nordic Lighting Award, recognizing its outstanding contribution to the architectural character of the Blue Lagoon.