Culture

Hof Culture Centre

Project information

  1. Location Akureyri, Iceland
  2. Area7.500 m²

Project details

  1. Year2004 — 2009
  2. StatusCompleted
  3. Partners Arkitema
  4. Client Akureyri Municipality
  5. Enquiries Sigurður Hallgrímsson

A social linchpin

Hof Culture Centre is located in Akureyri, an Icelandic town with a population of 20,000. Situated on the banks of the fjord, the building becomes a natural part of the town's public realm, acting as a social linchpin in the community.

Natural facade

The arts centre is anchored in Icelandic nature: externally, the building is clad with rods and bars of Icelandic basalt. The robust facade presents an organic rhythm, with high narrow windows positioned according to the daylight needs of the various functions.

Enter the ravine

The building's interior also resembles nature; the interior pedestrian street is reminiscent of a ravine between rock walls. Openings in the walls provide access to the cultural functions: a concert hall with room for 600 spectators, a multi-purpose hall and a sculpture courtyard.

Significant landmark

The culture centre will be the first building seen by cruise ship tourists arriving in Akureyri, and can contain various functions welcoming tourists to the town. Outside opening hours of the arts centre, the café in the centre of the "ravine" is open for the public to enjoy the magnificent view across the fjord.