Renovation of Grófarhús

Description of the action and objectives

Green Deal action

Reykjavík City is organizing a design competition for the renovation, enlargement, and massive transformation of Grófarhús by Tryggvagata in Reykjavík, in collaboration with the Architects Association of Iceland. At present, it is home to the headquarters of the Reykjavík City Library – Culture House, Reykjavík Photography Museum, and Municipal Archive. The project involves a thorough renovation of Grófarhús by Tryggvagata and its connection with a new extension. The plan is for Grófarhús to become a buzzing cultural and social center in the heart of Reykjavík – a diverse adventure and knowledge world for children and families and guests of all ages.

Implementation period

Planned completion in the second half of 2022

Status: Completed

Status report on January 1, 2023

The results of a design competition regarding changes and improvements to Grófarhús were announced in late November. A team comprised of JVST architects, Inside Outside, Hanrath Architect, the Kreatíva design studio, VSÓ Consulting, and Örugg Engineering was chosen in the competition organized by Reykjavík City and Architects Association of Iceland. The selection committee's report states that the proposal is playful and enjoyable, meeting expectations for a diverse adventure and knowledge hub for people of all ages. Additionally, they observed that the proposal has the potential to be progressive, leading, and responsive to the changing needs of the community. It remains to be determined when construction will commence.

Older status reports

The table shows older status reports with information on the progress of the action since its inception (if you're using your phone, it's better to turn it sideways).

Timing Progress description
July 2022

A contest for a new Grófarhús took place in the first half of the year, with five teams selected from the pre-qualification phase to participate in the design contest. The priority for the pre-qualification phase was on renovation and sustainability in line with the Green Deal, and the winning proposal will be announced in the second half of the year. Design teams submit proposals in the fall months, which will be reviewed in October and the results announced on November 24, 2022.

Connection of action to Reykjavík City's policies:

Reykjavík City departments: