New location for public market
Search for new facilities for a public market in the center of Reykjavík. Reykjavík City has decided to find new housing after the Iceland Academy of the Arts moves into the Customs House on Tryggvagata.
Public market announcement
Public markets are important for daily life
In the fall of 2022, Reykjavík City sought analysis from the design firm m/studio_ on housing needs and possible locations. The analysis, presented to the City Executive Council February 2024 along with a proposal for a market survey, was completed last year and is based, among other things, on field research in Kolaportið in Reykjavík and an assessment of the space requirements for public markets.
The analysis highlights the value of such markets for daily life and notes that, according to research, social factors are one of the main reasons people go to public markets. It states that for their success, they need to be gathering places for locals, as they are among the few places where people of different social and cultural backgrounds come together. Public markets need to reflect the diversity of society so that everyone has something to seek there and feels welcome.
It discusses the importance of markets for tourists' experiences, that the product range appeals to different groups and is predictable but also unexpected, that rental costs for stalls are low, that diverse events are offered, that the location is good, and that the premises are accessible, convenient, memorable, attractive, and offer good flow. It also mentions the importance of a cohesive appearance and a strong brand.
The analysis is based on a framework that includes analyses and research compiled by the organization Project for Public Space (www.pps.org). It adheres to several criteria considered to have the greatest impact on the success of public markets:
- Visible and notable premises
- Proximity to other services and areas where people already gather
- Good access for pedestrians and vehicles, closeness to public transportation
- Convenient access for deliveries and nearby parking
- Premises well-suited for the activity
Space requirements and promising locations
The m/studio_ analysis does not specify a particular size for the overall space requirement of public markets but rather looks to the aforementioned criteria. It addresses the space needs for stalls, walking, dining, and event areas, and discusses that the best setup would be for the premises to be on one level, be flexible, and have high ceilings and wide walls. It is noted that Kolaportið currently has a total floor area of about 2,250 square meters, and a 1,200 square meter market would be on the smaller side..
Looking to various international models, suggestions for several locations in Reykjavík that the authors believe could be exciting to explore further are put forth, analyzed based on the aforementioned criteria. View the m/studio_ report for more details.
Related news
Where can I get more information?
Other interesting information:
- Mayor's proposal along with the report and the m/studio_ analysis (February 15, 2024)
- City Executive Council minutes, Discussion and approval, cf. agenda item No. 6 (February 15, 2024)
- Declaration of intent signed regarding future premises for the Iceland Academy of the Arts (May 7, 2022)
- City Executive Council approves cooperation on future premises for LHÍ, cf. agenda item No. 23 (April 28, 2022)
- Mayor's proposal, with a report on cooperation regarding future premises for LHÍ (April 26, 2022)
- Morgunblaðið: Kolaportið in the Customs House: Significant sales increase (news, June 28, 1994)
- Tíminn: "Excitement at Kolaportið" (April 14, 1989)
- DV (advertisement): “Good Start for Kolaportið – 13,000 guests on opening day…“ (April 13, 1989)
Want to know more or send a comment? Send an email to athafnaborgin@reykjavik.is