What is the architecture like in Iceland?

The architecture of Iceland is mainly low-rise, with many low tower blocks and two- or three-storey buildings with pitched roofs predominating. Houses and smaller municipal buildings were traditionally wooden-framed, and clad in wooden planks or corrugated metal. Often they were painted in traditional bright colours.

What materials were used to build a house in Iceland?

Stone and later concrete were popular building materials, the latter especially with the arrival of functionalism in the country. Contemporary architecture in Iceland is influenced by many sources, with styles varying greatly around the country.

Why are turf houses called traditional architecture in Iceland?

Turf houses that existed in most of Northern Europe came to be known as the traditional architecture of Iceland because in other countries the Turf houses were only built by the poor who couldn’t afford other materials whereas in Iceland Turf houses were common to all people regardless of their financial status.

What was the first stone building built in Iceland?

Many high-quality stone buildings were erected in the 18th century, the first being a mansion on Viðey, made completely out of Icelandic stone. These were some of the first buildings in Iceland to be constructed by architects, who were from Denmark, as these buildings were constructed for the Danish authorities.