More nature and less carbon footprint in Reykjavik's most sustainable district

The Keldur district in Reykjavik will become a model for Icelandic urban development and is an important piece of the puzzle on the road to climate neutrality. FOJAB has developed the basis for the in-depth master plan, which is now out for consultation.

Two years ago, the City of Reykjavik launched an open international competition for the development of the Keldur district for 12 000 inhabitants. The city's ambitions were high: the new district should focus on sustainable mobility, social sustainability and structures for water and greenery. FOJAB won the competition with a proposal based on a social mix in a dense and flexible urban structure along a new rapid transit line and close to nature.

FOJAB then developed the ideas further in collaboration with Ramboll, Efla, the City of Reykjavik and Transport of the Capital Area. Input from city administrations and other stakeholders has been incorporated and a development plan and design manual produced. This work forms the basis for the proposed in-depth master plan, which is now out for consultation, with Reykjavik residents invited to an open house.

The new district will be characterized by quality of life, child-friendliness, simple and easy everyday life in green, beautiful environments. Great importance is attached to preserving the natural qualities of the area, and nature has also been given more space than recommended in the master plan. The urban area has been reduced by 28 hectares, resulting in denser development and a lower carbon footprint. The Borgarlína express bus line connecting Keldur to the city center has been partially re-routed to better follow the landscape compared to an earlier proposal.

For FOJAB's part, work will continue to process the proposal once the comments from the consultation have been received. The detailed general plan is expected to be adopted in early 2026, after which work on detailed plans will begin. The expansion will take place in stages.