FJARAFERÐ
2018
Process Diagrams
In order to create enhanced experiences of different moments within the Reynisfjara Beach, the proposed buildings followed four simple strategies for how they would interact with the environment.
The Research Center and Learning Spaces would be embedded in different ways within the mountain, and the Observatory would aim to have different levels that explore the sensation of floating and submersion.
Site Plan
Wave Energy System within Observatory
FJARAFERÐ : Enhancing the Environment
Location: Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland
Observation: Environmental Elements
Energy Source: Geothermal / Wave
With the intent of preserving the site as much as possible, as well as enhancing the experience of local natural forces of the sometimes dangerous Reynisfjara Black Beach, the project consists of various spaces along the East end of the beach— inviting visitors to experience different atmospheric moments allowed by the site such as walking within and above the mountain, and floating above the waves themselves through the help of architecture.
“FJARAFERĐ” is not only a series of buildings scattered throughout the beach— it is a passageway through the site that allows the visitors to learn as much as possible about Reynisfjara through pushing the limits within the site. To achieve this, both minimal manipulation and subtle addition to the landscape created a project that allows moments never experienced before in the famous Icelandic site.
Apart from being a minimal series of architectural additions to Reynisfjara, “FJARAFERĐ” uses two different renewal energy sources to reduce negative environmental impacts on the precious site. Because of the promotion of these renewable energy sources, in some areas of the project visitors can closely observe how wave generators work in relation to the environment and the architecture.
Additionally scattered throughout the beach, are wave force data collectors that measure the force and height that each sneaker wave reaches throughout time. This measuring system is covered in copper—a material that will visually degrade and change appearance as time goes and waves crash against it constantly.