Many exciting projects in the city center this summer
Construction projects have now started or are getting underway at many locations in the city center to improve facilities, add more greenery and create an attractive, vibrant urban environment.
Summer 2025 will be an exciting time for Reykjavík City's Urban Design Division, which shapes and develops the urban environment with a focus on human-centered design, sustainability and better quality of life for residents. The division handles diverse projects that involve designing and improving public spaces, streets and squares.
The main projects the Urban Design Division is working on this summer include:
Skólavörðustígur
Work on the pedestrian section of Skólavörðustígur will focus on improving the area's appearance through expanded plantings and upgrades to seating areas and public spaces. This project builds on earlier improvements and aims to strengthen the pedestrian street as a lively and enjoyable area.
Vegamótastígur and Vatnsstígur
Design work for accessibility improvements is underway on Vegamótastígur from Grettisgata as it's converted to a pedestrian street, while construction continues on Vatnsstígur's new pedestrian street. Both streets will be designed with an emphasis on user-friendly features, leisure areas and more greenery.
Hlemmur
Work will continue on waiting areas at Hlemmur as part of the square's construction phases. This includes installing a temporary playground (pop-up playground), expanding leisure areas with fun street furniture, and developing designs with architecture students from the Iceland University of the Arts to improve how construction areas look.
Design work will also focus on the areas south and north of the food hall, emphasizing eco-friendly and multipurpose uses.
Hjartatorg
Working with stakeholders and supported by an interdisciplinary design team, Hjartatorg (Heart Square) will be redesigned with better leisure areas and diverse vegetation. The project will strengthen both the appearance and usefulness of the area as part of daily city life.
Vitatorg Parking Garage
Work will continue on eco-friendly development at Vitatorg in partnership with the Summer City 2025 project. More greenhouses will be added there, creating a greener experience and bringing more diversity to the city center.
Bernhöftstorfa
New street furniture will be installed in Bernhöftstorg to improve facilities and encourage people to spend time there. The project aims to strengthen the area as a peaceful and pleasant space for pedestrians and visitors.
Standby Squares
The Standby Squares 2025 project continues with record participation, receiving a total of 23 applications. This year's project goal is to bring life to the city's forest spaces. The squares will be used for vegetation, play and education.