The Icelandic Concrete Saga: Architecture and Construction (1847–1958)

Iceland's first and only cement plant was opened in 1958 by Minister of Industry Gylfi Thorsteinsson Gislason, leading to the popularity of concrete in the country. The Icelandic Concrete Saga explores over one hundred years of Icelandic architecture, construction, and technology, tracing the history of a struggle with material scarcity and the natural elements.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2023
Publisher: JOVIS Verlag

Many would consider a country without building materials uninhabitable. This was the reality in Iceland in the early 1900s, when most rural and urban dwellings were still being built from local turf or expensive imported timber. However, a significant shift was underway, and the first and only cement plant in Iceland was opened in 1958 by Minister of Industry Gylfi Þorsteinsson Gíslason. This marked the beginning of a remarkable transformation in the country's architecture, engineering, and construction practices.

Portland cement, which was first used as plaster on the walls of the Reykjavik cathedral more than a century before, had become a popular building material in many parts of the world. However, in Iceland, it was still relatively uncommon. The country's rugged landscape and harsh weather conditions made it difficult to transport and store large quantities of cement, which was expensive.

Despite these challenges, Icelandic architects, engineers, and masons began to embrace concrete as a viable building material. They recognized its durability, strength, and versatility, and saw it as a way to create modern, functional buildings that could withstand the country's harsh climate. The first decades of the twentieth century are often referred to as "the age of concrete" in Iceland because of the widespread use of this material in construction.

The Icelandic Concrete Saga is a fascinating story that focuses on over one hundred years of Icelandic architecture, construction, and technology. It traces the history of an architecture in constant struggle with material scarcity and the natural elements, its outcomes intertwined with Icelandic politics, culture, and society.

The use of concrete in Iceland began with the construction of the Reykjavik cathedral in the late 19th century. At that time, the country was still in the process of rebuilding itself after the devastating volcanic eruption of 1873, which destroyed much of the capital city. The architects of the cathedral chose Portland cement as the primary building material because of its durability and strength, which were essential for the construction of such a large and complex structure.

The success of the Reykjavik cathedral paved the way for the widespread use of concrete in Iceland. Over the next few decades, architects, engineers, and masons began to experiment with different concrete techniques and materials, developing new methods for casting, shaping, and finishing concrete. They also began to incorporate other materials, such as steel and glass, into concrete structures, creating a unique and modern architectural style.

The popularity of concrete in Iceland was further fueled by the country's economic development in the early 20th century. The construction of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure projects required large quantities of concrete, and the country's natural resources, including limestone and volcanic ash, were abundant. This led to the establishment of several cement plants in Iceland, which produced high-quality cement for use in construction projects across the country.

The Icelandic Concrete Saga also highlights the impact of concrete on Icelandic culture and society. The construction of modern buildings and infrastructure projects has transformed the country's landscape, creating new urban areas and improving access to transportation and services. Concrete has also played a significant role in shaping Icelandic identity, as it has become a symbol of the country's modern and innovative spirit.

However, the use of concrete has also had its challenges in Iceland. The country's harsh climate and volcanic activity can cause concrete structures to deteriorate over time, requiring regular maintenance and repair. Additionally, the production of cement and other building materials can have negative environmental impacts, such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

Despite these challenges, the Icelandic Concrete Saga demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of concrete as a building material. It showcases the creativity and innovation of Icelandic architects, engineers, and masons, who have used concrete to create some of the most iconic and recognizable buildings in the world. The story of Iceland's concrete revolution is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and determination in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the Icelandic Concrete Saga is a fascinating story that focuses on over one hundred years of Icelandic architecture, construction, and technology. It traces the history of an architecture in constant struggle with material scarcity and the natural elements, its outcomes intertwined with Icelandic politics, culture, and society. The use of concrete in Iceland began with the construction of the Reykjavik cathedral in the late 19th century and has since become a popular building material in the country. The Icelandic Concrete Saga highlights the creativity and innovation of Icelandic architects, engineers, and masons, who have used concrete to create some of the most iconic and recognizable buildings in the world. However, the use of concrete has also had its challenges, and the story of Iceland's concrete revolution is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and determination in the face of adversity.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 170 x 241 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783986120276