FOJAB leads the way for sustainable urban development in Iceland

The Swedish architecture firm FOJAB is set to assist the city of Reykjavik in establishing a new standard for sustainable urban development in Iceland. The work is now starting on designing the district of Keldur.

Last year, FOJAB and Ramböll emerged victorious in an open international competition with their proposal Crafting Keldur – Where Art, Science & Recreation Unite. The competition aimed to develop a structural plan and development strategy for the Keldur district in eastern Reykjavik, characterized by an attractive urban structure, sustainable urban development, and climate neutrality in harmony with the site's nature and landscape.

Now, the next step is being taken. FOJAB has been awarded the entire planning assignment. Initially, the competition proposal will be further developed and refined into a Development Plan and Design Manual. Several studies will be conducted to ensure ambitious climate goals are met.

Iceland aims to be climate-neutral by 2040. Achieving this requires, among other things, a transition in transportation, as many rely heavily on cars. The new Keldur district is intended to lead the way towards a sustainable lifestyle. In a few years, the area will be served by a new rapid bus transit system, Borgarlína, connecting Keldur with the city center and other key locations in the capital region.

The competition proposal is based on a dense and flexible urban structure with proximity to nature, the university, and the city center. Strategies for achieving a social mix in the district were also included in the proposal. The development maintains a human scale – three to five stories – yet is dense and cohesive enough to create a vibrant and dynamic city.

“Schools and services should be within walking or biking distance in Keldur. For commuting, taking the bus is preferable. Making sustainable everyday choices should be easy, enjoyable, and natural. FOJAB possesses significant expertise in sustainable urban development, both in mobility and creating attractive environments, which we look forward to sharing with Reykjavik,” says Magdalena Hedman, project architect at FOJAB.