AVS. Arkitektúr verktækni skipulag - 01.03.2003, Side 45

THE BUILDING
The main concept behind the design of the building is a space of 640 m2 divided into three. In the middle is a con-
course, similar to a crevice, from the entry, through the building to the balcony with a view towards the lake. This
concourse with a glass roof connects the other two parts of the building. On the other side of the crevice is a
curved wall, supported by columns reminiscent of the curved sides of viking ships. On the other side of this curved
wall are the reception areas. They are open and easily accessible to visitors. On the other side there is a closed,
slightly slanting stonewall. Access through the stonewall leads to the private area of the ambassador, well isolated
from the reception area. The crevice is the main artery of the residence connecting entry, reception, private area
and balcony.
Visitors' reception
The lobby, kitchen, dining area and sitting areas are situated on the lower floor. The library is on the upper floor
where there is privacy for meetings, work and reading. The library is connected to the sitting areas by a staircase
and visually as well with the lake and the water sculpture creating peaceful atmosphere.
On the upper floor there is accommodation for visitors connected to the reception by a lift which also serves the
library. These spaces are therefore accessible by the handicapped. On the upper floor there is also accommodation
for staff, with direct connection to the kitchen on the lower floor and laundry, storage and technical areas in the
basement.
The private area of the ambassador
The access to the private area of the ambassador is through the main entrance but there is also a back entrance
with access to the garage. On the lower floor there is a large family room with a kitchen alcove directly connected
to the traffic artery and the upper floor where the bedrooms are situated away from the noisy reception areas. The
bedrooms windows turn away from the reception area and are well isolated from them. The private area can be
completely shut off during official receptions.
THE SITE
The access, parking, and the main entrance to the house is at the front of the house. The house is well identified
by a stonewall by the access road where the flag-pole is situated. From the reception area there is an easy access
to the balcony which will be used for receptions in good weather. The vegetation and trees create shelter between
the private part of the site and the open area by the lake and adjoining properties. By the dining area and library
there is a lake with a water sculpture by an lcelandic artist. The water and the work of art will help to create an
atmosphere of cleanliness and quiet.
CHOICE OF MATERIALS
The design and choice of materials mirror contrasts in texture and colour. Exposed concrete and rough basalt walls
are contrasted by white plastered walls, ceilings and timber cladding. An attempt has been made to use materials
connected to lceland e.g. Icelandic stone and Scandinavian timber including concrete which lcelanders started to
use early on. The architects also put emphasis on using environmentally sound building materials where possible.
The load bearing structure of the house is made of concrete, insulated on the outside with a weather protection.
The division of the house into three parts is reflected in the choice of outside cladding materials. The reception part
is dark, clad with rough hewn basalt and the private part has an even light exposed concrete surface. The middle
part is made of special insulating glass which does not transmit heat. Window frames are of dark coloured alumini-
um.
SERVICES
The designers emphasise the importance of economic high quality services .They will be built according to
European standards with regard to power consumption and environmental safety. The main service space is locat-
ed I the basement with air intake and air-conditioning and intakes for water and electricity. ■