Reitir and the Hjalli Model partner on new Nauthólsvegur preschool and primary school

Ritstjórn
Development partners stand on the building site in front of Hotel Natura.

Reitir and the Hjalli Model signed a letter of intent to collaborate on developing a new preschool and primary school within a planned quality of life community on Nauthólsvegur in Reykjavík. The school expects to serve around 400 children across preschool and primary school grades 1 through 7. 

This partnership marks a turning point for the Hjalli Model in Reykjavík, which has faced facility uncertainty for some time. Since its first students enrolled in the Hjalli Model primary school in 2006, operations have been based largely at Nauthólsvegur 89. The Hjalli Model had to relocate, however, when Reykjavík University began developing the site it owns. Since then, the school has operated out of temporary spaces at Skógarhlíð and Háahlíð in the Landnemi Scout Association facilities, while mid-level students are currently based at Arnarhlíð 1.

A rendering of the planned buildings on Nauthólsvegur.
Hönnunarmynd af fyrirhugaðri skólabyggingu og lífsgæðakjarna við Nauthólsveg.

City support proves essential

"This partnership is a vital step toward securing a quality, long-term home for the Hjalli Model's school operations. Reykjavík City's Department of Education & Youth has shown strong interest in the project and provided valuable support — without the City's backing for independent school operations and development, we would not be celebrating this milestone," reads a joint press release from the Hjalli Model and Reitir. 

At today's signing of the letter of intent. The photo shows both adults and children.
Margrét Pála Ólafsdóttir höfundur Hjallastefnunnar, Frans Páll Sigurðsson fjármálastjóri skóla- og frístundasviðs og Hildur Björnsdóttir borgarstjóri.

A close-knit intergenerational community

The new school will be part of a larger development — the planned quality of life community — that Reitir plans to build on Nauthólsveg. The development will feature a diverse mix of uses, including around 150 residential units — primarily for residents aged 60 and older — along with retail, services, a nursing home, and shared spaces. The philosophy behind the project draws on the concept of intergenerational living, where people of different ages live and work together in a close community.

According to Reitir's presentation, the project aims to promote greater social activity and resident well-being through shared spaces, strong connections, and inviting outdoor areas. Gardens, squares, and covered outdoor spaces will be central elements of the planning, designed to reduce social isolation and foster a stronger sense of community.

The Hjalli Model emphasizes equality, democracy, and creativity, and currently operates 12 preschools and three primary schools in partnership with 10 municipalities. About 1,650 children attend these schools, supported by a staff of roughly 550. Additional preschools also operate independently under the Hjalli Model name.

Children and adults formed a circle on the site.
Viðstödd mynduðu hring á lóðinni.

Shared philosophies, aligned goals

According to Hjalli Model representatives, the new school naturally fits the philosophy of both the organization and the planned quality of life community. The emphasis on environmentally conscious construction, community togetherness, and intergenerational connection aligns closely with the Education Policy that underpins the Hjalli Model.

If plans move forward, the new school will not only address a long-standing space shortage but also serve as a cornerstone of a new approach to urban development — one where education, housing, and services come together in a vibrant, diverse neighborhood setting.