Danish
Icelandic
Projects
Laufskálavarða
A service building, with different utilisation potentials which are intertwined in a few square metres.
There are toilet facilities, washing facilities, a viewing platform, a rest bench, and facilities for cyclists.
Project overview
Verkís was responsible for all engineering design of the building, which is drawn by Stáss architects. The design of lighting in the hallway and on the outside of the building was a collaborative project between Verkís and Stáss. The grounds of the site were also designed by Verkís landscape architects, including the parking lot, the pavement around the building, and the hiking paths in the area. The designers put a lot of emphasis on environmentally friendly material selection and that the design would fit well with the environment.
Sannir landvættir, which are partly owned by Verkís, received a grant from the Tourist Development Fund to repair damage in the area and to build the parking lot. The construction of the building was entirely financed by Sannir landvættir.
The rest stop Landvarða was nominated for the Iceland Design Award in 2022. The professional media Archilovers chose the rest stop as one of the best projects of 2021 for its aesthetics, creativity, and utilisation potential.
The Challenge
Laufskálavarða called for a compact, multifunctional service facility that could enhance the visitor experience while blending seamlessly into one of Iceland’s unique natural landscapes. The project required careful integration of architecture, engineering and landscape design with a strong focus on sustainability and durability.
Our Solution
Verkís provided the complete engineering design for the service building, including structural, electrical and utility systems, in collaboration with Stáss Architects. Our team also designed the exterior lighting, parking area, pathways and surrounding landscape, emphasizing environmentally responsible materials and solutions that harmonize with the natural environment.
The Result
The completed facility offers visitors a welcoming and functional rest stop with amenities including restrooms, washing facilities, cycling services and a viewing platform. Recognized for its outstanding design, the project was nominated for the Icelandic Design Award 2022 and selected by Archilovers as one of the world’s best architectural projects of 2021, demonstrating how thoughtful multidisciplinary design can create sustainable, high-quality public infrastructure.
Technical information
Location:
Mýrdalssandur
Size:
30 m²
Project period:
2018 – 2019
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