Green housing of the future
Description of the action and objectives
Green Deal action
The project is about a partnership on five plots to support the construction of sustainable buildings that reduce the negative impacts on climate and the environment. The project is part of Reykjavík's Green Plan and takes into account the Municipal Plan and Climate Policy, which comprehensively look at economic, social, and environmental sustainability. The plots in question: Arnarbakki 6, Völvufell 13-23, Völvufell 43, Frakkastígur 1, and Veðurstofureitur.
Implementation period
Planned completion in the second half of 2026
Status report on January 1, 2024
Preparatory work has begun at Veðurstofuhæð. A lot lease agreement was granted to Grænt húsnæði ehf. for the area. Discussions on a detailed land-use plan have started with all developers holding lease agreements. Construction has begun at Frakkastígur 1. Negotiations ended with the top contender in the competition for Arnarbakki, as they were not ready for lot assignment. The second contender has been invited for negotiations, and these discussions are ongoing. Lot assignments in Völvufell are delayed due to planning work.
Older status reports
| Timing | Progress description | |
| July 2023 | In late winter 2022, designers involved in the Green Housing of the Future competition were asked to submit ideas for a land-use plan for Veðurstofuhæð. At the end of June 2023, Lendager Group was chosen to oversee the planning work. During summer and fall 2023, the project was presented to stakeholders such as FSRE, the Icelandic Meteorological Office, Veitur Utilities, and lot leaseholders. Next steps include detailed land-use planning in collaboration with stakeholders. Agreements are signed at Frakkastígur, and construction preparations by the developer Iða are underway. Negotiations are ongoing for Arnarbakki and Völvufell. | |
| January 2023 | A contract was signed with Iða regarding building lot allocation at Frakkastígur 1. Iða plans to design and construct a multi-family home at Frakkastígur 1, utilizing circular economy methodologies. The house, known as Græni Klettur in reference to Hvítserkur in Vatnsnes, will contribute at least 50% less emissions than a reference building. Part of this plan involves rethinking building materials and not just throwing away valuable resources but rather re-inventing and creating anew. Building plot allocations for the remaining four plots are still pending, with the intention of inviting the most qualified teams to negotiations for contracts. | |
| July 2022 | A call for proposals for eco-friendly housing development on five plots in Reykjavík was announced. Winning teams were found separately by the competition committee for each plot. The Legal Team is working on drafting demands and is about to invite teams for contract negotiations. |
Connection of action to Reykjavík City's policies:
Related actions
Economic objectives
- 1. Responsible financial management | Green Deal The City's Financial Policy is based on sustainability, stability, predictability, and transparency.
- 2. Dense and mixed development | Green Deal Denser, mixed housing with neighborhood sustainability at its core.
- 3. New employment opportunities of the future | Green Deal Future job opportunities will be based on knowledge, innovation, and sustainability.
- 4. A favorable environment for business and innovation | Green Deal The goals of Reykjavík City in the development of new industrial areas for businesses until 2030 are efficient land use, diverse economy, and industrial zones for companies of all types and sizes.