eyLAND vatnavinir

project type: hotel & hostel

location: Ísafjörður, Iceland

client: Ferðahúsið ehf

floor area : 1040 m2

design year: 2011/2012, on hold

end of construction: not fixed

architects: olga gudrun sigfusdottir and Jörn frenzel

consultants: sigurdur gunnarsson engineer

 

 

 

The hotel is situated directly by the waterfront and harbour of Ísafjörður, the context is a colourful mixture of local cultural and commercial activities: adjacent to the site are a small local production business, a museum and a restaurant, a fish drying hut, boats in the harbour and on dry dock – everyting in immediate proximity to the sea and the steep mountains of the fjord. The museum, Pakkhúsið and restaurant represent fine examples of local vernacular architecture, which are of particular interest to the local Conservation Authorities.

 

The shape and outline of the proposed building respects this traditional context and will closely refer to this vernacular language both in use of materials and building proportions as well as height. The shape of the building echoes the surrounding traditional buildings, yet adds a modern interpretation to this vernacular language. [JF3] In doing so, the building refers to a simplicity, a traditional quality of life without getting “nostalgic” or “romantisizing”.

 

Drift wood, Icelandic larch and natural stone are proposed as main materials for the facades and interiors. Local drift-wood is proposed for the load-bearing structure.

 

The building is designed according to sustainable practice, using local material, local knowhow and a vernacular language, which relates to the specifics of the site and the use of the building. It is an exercise of placemaking.

 

The Hotel is projected to offer 18 standard double/twin bedrooms. Optional, the provision of a further 3 double rooms of higher standard is envisioned. The hostel is to provide accommodation for 10-15 guests. The hotel will be serving in part as a hub for customers of local travel operator Borea Adventures (sailing and adventure travellers) and as a hotel for other sailors as well as for national and international travellers and nature lovers.

 

The building is clearly intended to use sustainable methods and techniques both technically – through its construction and use/production of energy - as well as architecturally through its use of space, its user experience and its integration within the context of Ísafjörðurs´ local community. This reference to the community will be implemented through public offerings such as multipurpose spaces, workshops and sailing services/ repairs.

 

this project is on hold , but hopefully soon in process again :)