Reykjavik, Iceland
Designing vibrant spaces amid large-scale construction
The Project
Hlemmur’s redevelopment is Reykjavik’s most significant urban transformation project, reinforcing the neighborhood’s role as a key gateway to the city center. Central to this transformation is the construction of the main station for the new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, and with a five-year construction timeline, careful planning was essential to maintain vibrancy and accessibility while minimizing disruption to local businesses.
To address this, an asphalt art project was introduced that drew inspiration from Hlemmur’s rich history as a transportation hub. The selected artists were charged with creating a design using only lines—no large filled spaces—while ensuring a playful, engaging experience for children.
Throughout the project, the artist and city team engaged businesses in the surrounding area, showing them proposed sketches and keeping them updated on the project timeline, all in an effort to maximize foot traffic to local companies during construction.
Use the slider to see the transformation
The artwork has had a great impact on how people move through the area and kept the site alive through a very big urban construction. The colorful design also sparked a sense of joy for passers-by and encouraged people to stay and slow down even though they were passing the construction. This also contributed to the businesses around as people felt welcome in the area.
Edda Ívarsdóttir, former Urban Design Department Head, City of Reykjavík
For inspiration and tips for the creation of art on roadways and public places, download the Bloomberg Associates Asphalt Art Guide which features successful plaza and roadway art activations around the world, as well as key steps for developing such projects.
