Esja Architecture has created a circular viewing platform in the Eastern Fjords of Iceland.
Called the Ring of Bjólfur, it is a ring-shaped viewing platform located on the slopes of Mount Bjólfur.
In eastern Iceland, 650 meters above sea level.
The platform is set up to overlook Seydisfjordur, a narrow fjord with steep mountains.
Known for its vibrant arts scene, food culture and annual art and music festival,
As well as the only ferry from Iceland to mainland Europe.
Bird’s eye view with Seydisfjordur and the Atlantic Ocean in the background,
presented by artists © Alex Cetea & Andrei Ducu Predescu
The project was selected as the winning proposal in a pre-qualified competition issued by the municipality in 2021.
Construction of the loop will begin this fall and Esja Architecture expects the project to be completed in the fall of 2024.
Envisioned as a simple concrete structure, the project will sit atop the rugged landscape
and hover over the edge to provide stunning views of the fjord and the Atlantic Ocean.
Providing a 360° experience
The ring is 32 meters in diameter, with a walkway and bench extending its entire circumference of 100 metres.
“360-degree experience will invite visitors to explore views of the surrounding mountains, the city, the valley and the mountain peak above,” said Esja Architecture.
“The circular, slightly sloped structure will also be wheelchair accessible,” the team explained.
Silver color palette
The loop will be built of concrete, with an interior railing of local pine and an exterior fence of thin stainless steel posts.
Three materials will display a range of silver-grey tones, with the silver patina of the pine trees,
The brilliant reflection of steel, and the changing tones of exposed concrete with the weather.
Master plan
The studio relied on durability in selecting materials, as well as minimal maintenance due to the harsh weather conditions and remote location.
According to the team, the sharp silver color palette will create a striking contrast with the brown tones of the rocky landscape it will sit on.
Viking ring
Bjöllfur Mountain is named after the Viking Bjöllfur,
who first settled in Sjædsfjordur and is believed to have been buried at the top of the mountain.
It is tradition for Vikings to be buried with their most valuable possessions, including jewelry and weapons.
Accordingly, the Ring of Beulfor symbolizes a precious silver ring belonging to Beulfur, the ancestor of the Fjord People.
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