Kringlan, a iconic shopping mall located in the heart of Reykjavik, Iceland, is a testament to modern retail and social innovation. Spanning 50,000 square meters and featuring approximately 150 commercial outlets, Kringlan is more than just a shopping destination—it is a cultural and social hub that reflects the unique lifestyle and needs of the Icelandic people. Situated at Iceland’s busiest crossroads and near the city center, Kringlan has become a landmark, offering a diverse range of services, activities, and experiences that cater to both locals and visitors. Its prime location and indoor setup make it an ideal refuge from the harsh Icelandic climate, providing a comfortable space for people to gather, socialize, and enjoy quality time together. In a country where the weather can be unforgiving, shopping malls like Kringlan play a vital role in fostering community and providing a welcoming environment for everyday life.
In recent years, Kringlan has undergone a significant transformation, particularly on its third floor, which has been reimagined as a dynamic entertainment hub. This ambitious project was led by the Icelandic architecture firm THG Arkitektar, in collaboration with Reitir, a leading real estate development group, and M Worldwide, a UK-based consulting firm. The vision was to create a space that goes beyond traditional retail, focusing instead on entertainment, experience, and social connection. As Paolo Gianfrancesco, a partner at THG Arkitektar, explains, the renovation was not just about restyling but about rethinking the entire space, including its layout, flow, and activities. The goal was to create an aesthetically pleasing, welcoming, and engaging environment that encourages visitors to enjoy, share, and connect—all while staying adaptable to evolving social trends. The result is a vibrant, 7,000-square-meter area that seamlessly integrates dining, entertainment, and leisure, offering something for everyone.
One of the standout features of the renovated third floor is its focus on material quality and design. THG Arkitektar placed a strong emphasis on the selection of materials, particularly ceramics, for their durability, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Approximately 5,000 square meters of flooring and wall coverings were chosen from renowned brands such as FMG Fabbrica Marmi e Graniti, Iris Ceramica, and Sapienstone—all part of the Iris Ceramica Group. These materials were selected for their ease of installation and maintenance, as well as their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic and mechanical cleaning. Beyond practicality, the wide range of patterns and visual options available in ceramic materials allowed the designers to create a space that is both visually striking and deeply rooted in Icelandic culture. The choice of ceramics also reflects a broader design philosophy that prioritizes comfort, safety, and user experience, ensuring that the space feels welcoming and inclusive to all who visit.
The food hall, known as Kúmen, is one of the key highlights of the renovation. Designed to offer an inviting and informal dining experience, Kúmen celebrates Icelandic culture while embracing inclusivity and diversity. The space features a dynamic layout with diagonal tile patterns and varied color tones, evoking the feel of traditional cobblestone streets. This design choice not only adds visual interest but also creates a connection to the outdoors, bringing a sense of familiarity and warmth to the indoor environment. The walls, adorned with handcrafted brick-style ceramics, further enhance the space with texture and a touch of modern minimalism. Among the many dining options, Finnsson Bistrot stands out for its refined yet vibrant ambiance, showcasing the Venetian terrazzo-effect porcelain from FMG. This space seamlessly blends beauty and functionality, offering a unique and memorable experience for diners.
In addition to the food hall, the third floor is home to a variety of entertainment options, including a multi-screen cinema, a children’s play area, a spacious gym, and the new Oche entertainment zone. The Oche area, developed in collaboration with a leading Northern European entertainment specialist, combines social gaming, premium dining, and interactive experiences. The design of this space is bold and captivating, featuring high-quality materials, intimate seating areas, and striking color combinations. The use of technical ceramics from FMG and elegant surfaces from Sapienstone enhances the overall atmosphere, creating an immersive and Instagram-worthy environment. The Oche bathrooms, too, were designed with comfort and style in mind, incorporating bold colors and natural elements to create a visually striking yet fluid space.
The cinema, another focal point of the renovation, has been completely revamped to prioritize quality and experience. The new design removes physical barriers, creating an open and inviting atmosphere where guests can seamlessly access popcorn and food and beverage areas. A luxurious VIP room has also been introduced, offering plush armchairs, cozy sofa beds for couples, heated seats, phone chargers, and state-of-the-art acoustics. The reception area features a striking 14-meter counter with a bold pink effect, complemented by elegant ceramic coverings from Sapienstone. This attention to detail reflects the broader vision of Kringlan’s renovation, which aims to create a space that is not only functional but also beautiful and thoughtfully designed.
In conclusion, Kringlan’s transformation is a testament to the power of innovative design and community-focused thinking. By blending cutting-edge architecture, high-quality materials, and a deep understanding of Icelandic culture and lifestyle, Kringlan has redefined itself as a vibrant and inclusive destination. Whether it’s dining, entertainment, or socializing, the mall offers something for everyone, creating a sense of belonging and connection that goes beyond traditional retail. With its focus on usability, safety, and aesthetic appeal, Kringlan has set a new standard for shopping and entertainment in Iceland, cementing its status as a modern landmark and a true reflection of the country’s unique spirit.
