The National Arena

ASK arkitektar, in collaboration with the Norwegian architectural firm LPO Arkitekter and others, have won a competitive tender for the design and construction of a new National Arena in Laugardalur, located in Reykjavík, Iceland. The competition brief stipulated a vibrant structure that serves both sports functions and a variety of cultural events. The National Arena will be a new landmark in Laugardalur and an important addition to the existing activities in the neighborhood. The proposal emphasizes a clear connection to the environment, pleasant guest experience and flexibility so the spaces can play host to a variety of event scales and user groups. The uniqueness of the proposal is reflected, among other things, in the cladding of the building, which was created in collaboration with the artist Finnbogi Pétursson. Inspired by the old Icelandic tradition of storytelling through song in the perfect fifth musical interval, two sinus soundwaves were generated to create the third soundwave, which were then translated into three-dimensional forms. These fluid forms are realized in aluminum panels which populate the entire façade, reflecting the ever-changing sky and seasons and the adjacent surroundings, threading together architecture, sound and art.
ASK arkitektar is a 45-year-old architectural firm that has been involved in the design of numerous sports facilities in Iceland. That experience is essential in this important project, where professional knowledge, a clear vision and an understanding of the Icelandic context must go together. We are very proud to have the opportunity to participate in shaping the new National Arena. This is a project that is of great significance for Icelandic sports and cultural life, and we look forward to working on it in good collaboration with the client, partners and users of the building.
The proposal is a collaboration between the contractor ÍAV, ASK arkitektar, LPO Arkitekter, landscape designers at Landhönnun, MEP consultants at Cowi and artist Finnnbogi Pétursson.