Reykjavik’s new seven-unit kindergarten nears completion

A new seven-unit kindergarten in Elliðaárdalur is expected to be completed in the coming weeks, with the first children due to arrive in early 2027, mbl.is reports. The building will cover about 1,900 square metres and accommodate around 120 children.

Work is progressing on the building, and construction of its play area is about to begin. The recruitment process for a kindergarten director is nearing completion. The director will lead preparations for the educational programme, develop the school curriculum and work plan, and recruit staff.

“We hope to welcome the first children at the beginning of 2027. That depends in part on how quickly the play area is completed,” said Sigrún Ásta Einarsdóttir, Reykjavík City Council representative and chair of the city’s preschool and childcare council. She said families would receive more information about enrolment.

The kindergarten is a modular steel-frame building made from units constructed indoors in Poland, then transported to Iceland and assembled on site. Building the structure at the same time as preparing the grounds has significantly shortened the construction period.

The building has pine cladding and a brush-covered roof inspired by old farmhouses in Árbær. Property company Laki owns the building, which the city will lease on a long-term basis. The lease terms were agreed before construction began, leaving the landlord responsible for the risk of costs exceeding the agreed budget.

“Many of the city’s kindergartens face problems with their buildings because maintenance has not been carried out as it should have been. We need to look after existing facilities and make use of good solutions for new construction,” Sigrún Ásta said. She described the cooperation with Laki as professional and said the city looked forward to filling the building with life, play and learning.