Architecture continues to advance by raising its standards.
Architecture today has become more demanding, as architectural quality increasingly emerges from an intelligent reading of context rather than from form or visual effect alone.
Years of close exchange with architects point to a clear shift in how inspiration takes shape. Environmental constraints, material realities, regulation, and use now stand at the core of architectural thinking, acting as structuring forces that guide solutions designed to function, endure, and adapt.
This evolution has also reshaped the relationship between architects and the industry. Relevance outweighs scale,
and meaningful exchange matters more than visibility. Trade fairs retain value when they offer material
intelligence and editorial clarity, while formats driven by accumulation and spectacle are increasingly
questioned.
At the same time, direct and personal encounters between architects and manufacturers gain importance through the
depth and trust they allow.
Architecture remains creative, while operating to higher standards of clarity, competence, and purpose.
Why Standing Still Is No Longer an Option for Major Trade Fairs
Major trade fairs remain powerful platforms for the construction and architectural world.
They bring people, ideas, and innovation together at a unique scale.
But the context has changed.
Today, the key question is no longer:
“Is the trade fair important?”
It is:
“Is the trade fair evolving at the same speed as its audience?”
Architects have changed
Leading architects are still looking for:
- meaningful innovation
- high-level dialogue
- trusted professional encounters
What has changed is their patience for formats that do not respect their time or expertise.
They have not disengaged.
They have become more selective.
Avoiding the illusion of scale
In the past, growth in size was often equated with success.
Today, scale without structure can create distance instead of value.
Architects no longer measure impact by:
- the number of halls
- the number of stands
They look for:
clarity, quality, and relevance.
This does not weaken major trade fairs.
It challenges them to evolve.
The real challenge is relevance
The future of major trade fairs will not be decided by:
- more activity
- more content
It will be decided by their ability to:
- create clear qualitative reference points
- curate content with real value
- enable dialogue, not interruption
These are no longer optional improvements.
They are basic expectations.
“This evolution does not question the role of major trade fairs — it redefines their next chapter.”
Architecture That Resonates,
Today, great architecture isn’t just about design, it’s about meaning.
The most successful projects are those that respond to their environment, tell a story, and integrate sustainability in a thoughtful and intelligent way.
High-end real estate now demands more than aesthetics. It calls for a deep connection with context — cultural, ecological, and emotional — and for close collaboration between designers, engineers, and visionaries from the very start.
After years of writing about architecture and innovation, and organizing international awards, one thing is clear: the future belongs to those who build not just for impact, but for relevance.
Because in the end, what truly sets a project apart is not how loudly it speaks — but how deeply it resonates.
Jacques ALLARD / ArchiWorld / Archi-News
Image: Smyril Line's new headquarters and ferry terminal in Tórshavn by Henning Larsen
MIPIM 2026, March 2026
An Unparalleled Networking Success for Archi-Europe and Archi-World
In an unprecedented international context, MIPIM 2026 brought together more than 20,000 participants from around the world — political representatives, business and institutional leaders, and opinion leaders — to address the major challenges of shaping tomorrow’s cities with three key priorities: breaking down silos between public authorities and private stakeholders, bridging industry sectors, and showcasing the most exemplary projects and solutions.
Once again this year, Archi-Europe and Archi-World were proud to participate in MIPIM, contributing to what was an unparalleled networking success. The event offered unique opportunities to connect with architects and developers from across the globe. On this occasion, a special edition of Archi-News magazine was distributed, sparking widespread interest and resulting in a remarkable number of new enthusiastic subscribers.
This year’s event promises unparalleled networking opportunities and inspiring keynote sessions by global thought leaders. Discover the latest trends in urban planning, architecture, and real estate in an iconic setting. Let MIPIM be your gateway to redefining the future of architecture.
Reflection on BAU2025, January 2025
Again, it was a pleasure attending this year’s BAU2025 in Munich, the premier building and architecture trade fair in the world. This event stands out as one of the most fascinating platforms for discovering innovative sustainable and smart building materials, as well as solutions for on-site energy production, management, and storage.
This year’s edition is particularly impressive, showcasing how the construction industry has made significant strides in providing the right solutions and inspiring architects and engineers alike. It's evident from the overwhelming attendance of architects, who are eager to experience these solutions firsthand and engage in direct conversations with industry experts.
While we live in an increasingly digital world, many architects we spoke to admitted that critical information and cutting-edge innovations often fail to reach them through online channels. Events like BAU2025 offer an invaluable opportunity to see, touch, and understand the latest advancements in person, bridging the gap between the virtual and physical realms.
This is not just about exploring new products; it’s about continuous learning. By engaging with experts and discovering the latest developments, architects and designers are better equipped to ensure that each new project surpasses the last.
BAU2025 offers a glimpse into the future of building, making it an unmissable event for anyone in the industry. For architects seeking inspiration and practical solutions, there’s no better place to be.
News archive ...
June 18, 2026 MATTEO THUN DESIGNS EXPANSION OF HOTEL BELLA VISTA IN STELVIO NATIONAL PARK, SOUTH TYROL, ITALY
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Read moreMay 6, 2026 Kehai House, Morelia, Mexico
Read moreApril 27, 2026 An Alpine Sense of Space in Ceramic,
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Read moreMarch 31, 2026 Magnus, Jaipur, India by Sanjay Puri Architects
Read moreFebruary 26, 2026 Winter Retreat by Sparano + Mooney Architecture
Read moreFebruary 3, 2026 Katajanokan Laituri, Helsinki, Finlande, Anttinen Oiva Architects
Read moreDecember 27, 2025 New Welcome Pavilion for Saint Joseph’s Oratory: A Contemporary Addition to One of Montreal’s Most Visited Cultural Sites
Read moreJune 26, 2025 Snæfellsjökull National Park Visitor Center in Hellissandur
Read more
This design won the first prize in the an open competition in 2006. Hellisandur is a small fishing village on Snæfellsnes peninsula in the west of Iceland. Construction began in 2020 and was completed in 2022. The building was fully designed and constructed according to the international BREEAM certification standard, emphasizing environmentally friendly materials and minimizing waste.
The Visitor Center is more than a building; it is also a walking path, a viewing platform, and a vibrant center of culture and nature. The building form, shape, and use are inspired by the surrounding fauna, culture, and landscape, and is intended to reinforce the visitors’ experiences of their stay.
Jökulhöfði – Glacial Cape
Unlike human eyes, a whale’s eyes are located on each side of the head, which gives the animal two different perspectives on its environment, instead of the one perspective most people and other animals are given. Whether the human eye is inside Glacial Cape, or in its immediate vicinity, it can expect the ordinary perception of the eye to yield other extraordinary experiences.
Glacial Cape does not dominate its surroundings, but rather it merges into them. Its presence is easily visible from the main road, but from there no one perceives it fully. Immediately upon arrival the tone is set for different nuances that the building creates in interaction with nature. The trail, from the parking lot to the building, splits a sea of lava around the Cape so the line of sight is limited at first. As one gets closer, the Cape gradually reveals itself and its immediate surroundings. There, a melting pot for cultural, educational, and recreational activities becomes revealed – a melting pot which the Cape is intended to foster. Out of the lava sea, the route continues up the Cape, where unobstructed views extend to the glacier, land, and sea.
New approach to building design
One of the main goals in designing the building at this location was that it could be constructed with as little disturbance as possible, and that it would feel as though it had landed there fully formed, without any disruption. To achieve this, the design included a part of the building that hovers over the edge of the lava field. This required a new approach to building design in an earthquake-prone area, which places high demands on the structural system — especially when dealing with cantilevered structures, which are very challenging.
The design concept is inspired by the surrounding nature, and is divided into two distinct sections called Glacier Cape and Fishbone. One section is a work facility for the national park staff, and the other contains an exhibition space, café, and lecture facilities.
The exterior walls of the building are clad in two different types of timber cladding: on the Glacier Cape part, there is horizontal timber cladding, and on the Fishbone part of the building, there is vertical timber cladding.
A pathway runs through the center, allowing visitors to walk directly through the building from one side to the other. Stairs on both sides of the building lead up to the rooftop observation deck, which offers panoramic views of Snæfellsjökull glacier and the village Hellisandur.
The entire construction and operational process follows environmentally responsible practices, with a strong emphasis on sustainability. All materials were carefully selected for their low maintenance requirements—eliminating the need for outdoor maintenance and allowing for natural weathering without compromising durability.
BREEAM certification
The building was fully designed and constructed according to the international BREEAM certification standard, which emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility. Environmentally friendly materials were used throughout, and all construction waste was carefully minimized, measured, and monitored. Strict environmental requirements were also enforced on the contractor for the duration of the project. Furthermore, all wood used in the building is FSC-certified, ensuring that it is responsibly sourced and fully traceable throughout the production process.
BREEAM also addresses the connection between building and broader social factors, including the local environment, transportation, and innovative solutions that enhance building quality and sustainability. The National Park Visitor Center reflects these principles with well-developed walking and cycling paths that connect the center to the surrounding park. The building is accessible from both sides, with a pathway running directly through its center, integrating pedestrian access seamlessly into the design.
Technical sheet
Project title: Visitor center in Hellisandur
Address: Sandahraun 5, 360 Hellissandur, Iceland
Competition: 1st. prize in an open competition
Building size: 710 m2
Function: Visitor center in Snæfellsnes/Hellissandur
Architects: Arkís arkitektar, Vesturvör 7, 200 Kópavogur, Iceland
Owner/client: The State Construction Agency
Location: N64° 54’ 49.465” W23° 53’ 21.027
Photographer: Karl Vilhjálmsson
Awards: 1st prize in an open competition
Year of completion: 2023
About ARKÍS
ARKÍS is a forward-thinking architecture firm specializing in architecture, design, and planning. Since its founding in 1997, ARKÍS has worked both domestically and internationally, undertaking a wide range of projects for private clients and public institutions.
ARKÍS operates on the core belief that all architectural design is about creating environments and conditions that enhance our quality of life. The firm is also committed to promoting the importance of sustainable design.
ARKÍS has received various awards and recognitions for its work.
Contact média
- Arkis architects
- Bjorg Gunnarsdottir
- bjorg@ark.is
- +3545112060