Arte Viva is located near Myvatn Lake in Iceland. The design works to connect nature and architecture, creating an engaging experience for visitors. The project is inspired by the surrounding landscape, including the winding shores of the lake and the colorful Northern Lights. It aims to offer a space where people can interact meaningfully with the environment.

Concept and Design Approach

The concept behind Arte Viva focuses on blending dynamic forms with the natural elements of the site. The structure has a twisting shape that allows for varying viewpoints, capturing the essence of the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful approach creates an inviting space, inviting visitors to explore how architecture and nature can exist together.



Materials and Structural Features

The design features structural glass blocks that enhance the space's transparency and bring light into the interior. Additionally, the use of prefabricated bright dipped aluminum blocks adds a reflective quality that connects the built environment with the natural setting. These materials work together to create surfaces that reflect the sky, promoting a sense of harmony with the surrounding landscape.



Visitor Experience and Interaction

Visitors can ascend through the structure using ladders, entering different "live portraits" of the landscape they experience from each level. This movement creates a sense of discovery, as new perspectives constantly unfold. Elevated views play a key role, allowing people to interact with the beauty of the environment in varied and engaging ways.



Dynamic Landscape Integration

The layout of Arte Viva responds to the local topography, establishing a strong connection with the landscape. The twisting form and varied viewing angles provide a fluid relationship with the natural environment. This design encourages reflection on the ever-changing scenery of Myvatn Lake and its features. The reflective surfaces serve to amplify this connection, enhancing the visual relationship between the structure and the landscape.