Reykjavik weighs glass-roof plan for Hafnarstræti

Reykjavik planning officials are reviewing a proposal to turn Hafnarstræti into a pedestrian street with a glass roof, alongside plans to cover two other plots in Kvosin, a district of the city. The proposal was introduced in late summer, mbl.is reported.

The two additional plots, which have so far been closed to the public, are behind the former Landsbanki building on Austurstræti and behind the Eimskipafélag building, alongside Tryggvagata. Eik fasteignafélag and Landsbyggð hf. own the buildings on the plots. The proposal was prepared by architects Batteríið.

A planning official described the proposal as an interesting vision that could strengthen public life, improve connections and make better use of the district. Officials said the ideas merit closer examination with property owners and other stakeholders before a position is taken on specific elements.

The project manager’s assessment says turning Hafnarstræti into a pedestrian street is worth considering and would align with city planning goals to strengthen public spaces and improve the urban environment. A glass roof could also allow the street to be used throughout the year, but officials said they would examine covering only part of it, taking account of the cityscape and cultural heritage.

Further assessment is needed of fire safety, fire service access, air quality and acoustics, as well as ownership, operation and maintenance of the structure. Officials are also open to exploring glass roofs over courtyards, changes to access routes and relocating lifts within buildings.

The proposal’s coverings were described as promising but requiring more study, including their impact on the buildings’ heritage value, the character of Kvosin, materials, visual effects and public access. Officials have requested further information on dimensions and shadow impacts, and said heritage authorities should be consulted. The proposal will now receive further consideration within the city administration.