Concrete Poetry: Exploring Högna Sigurðardóttir's Bakkaflöt House
Introduction
In 1949, Högna Sigurðardóttir made history as the first Icelander to attend the prestigious École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. During her time there, she embarked on a remarkable journey in the world of architecture.
Breaking Barriers in Architecture
Fresh out of school and brimming with talent, Högna designed a groundbreaking residential building in the Westman Islands in 1960. This achievement marked her as the very first woman to design a building in Iceland. Her name began to shine brightly in the Icelandic architectural scene, not only for her audacious style but also for shattering the glass ceiling in a male-dominated field.
Högna's architectural prowess lay in her ability to seamlessly blend landscape, form, and space while paying homage to ancient Icelandic building heritage. Although she honed her skills in the bustling streets of Paris, some of her most iconic projects were nestled in her homeland, Iceland. One of her masterpieces, the Bakkaflöt house (also known as Hafsteinshús in Iceland, 1965–68), earned its place as one of the twentieth century's hundred most remarkable buildings in 'World Architecture: a Critical Mosaic.
Bakkaflöt House: A Closer Look
The Bakkaflöt house is a testament to Högna's architectural genius, skillfully employing prominent Brutalist techniques and a contemporary interpretation of concrete, all while drawing inspiration from Iceland's rich history of building traditions. This architectural marvel seemed to melt into its natural surroundings, situated on a cozy plot in Garðabær. The house concealed its exterior behind artificial hills, leaving only the sleek flat roof exposed.
Inside, the focal point was an inviting main living room, bathed in natural light from a grand skylight and anchored by a fireplace. Högna's meticulous attention to detail was evident throughout, with built-in reading nooks and expansive floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that harmonized vertical and horizontal elements.
Conclusion
Raw concrete, iron, masterfully carved hardwood, and the subtle touch of supple leather come together, crafting an inviting and textured atmosphere. The Bakkaflöt house, a testament to Högna Sigurðardóttir's creative genius, seamlessly intertwines the built environment with nature, all the while honoring Iceland's rich architectural legacy.