Play area
Children’s Library
Free
A permanent family space for reading, play, and creative activities.
Discover a vibrant cultural center featuring contemporary art exhibitions, literary events, and performances. This architectural hub fosters cooperation between Nordic and Baltic nations through diverse community events, discussions, and creative programs.
A premier cultural center hosting contemporary exhibitions, live performances, and community discussions focused on Nordic and Baltic art, heritage, and literature.
The Nordic House in Reykjavík serves as a vital cultural center fostering cooperation between the Nordic and Baltic nations. Housed in a notable building featuring spaces dedicated to architect Alvar Aalto, it hosts contemporary art exhibitions, performances in the Elissa Auditorium, and literary reading circles. Visitors can also engage with creative activities in the on-site greenhouse.
The Nordic House is located on Sæmundargata in Reykjavík, situated within the city's Capital Region. Designed by architect Alvar Aalto, this cultural center sits near local educational and wetland areas, offering a serene setting for visitors. Its convenient location makes it easy to combine a gallery or library visit with an exploration of the area.
Sæmundargata 11
102 Reykjavík
Capital Region, IS
Designed by architect Alvar Aalto, The Nordic House in Reykjavík is a vibrant cultural hub fostering cooperation between Nordic and Baltic nations. Visitors can explore contemporary art exhibitions or attend diverse live performances in the Elissa Auditorium. The multidisciplinary experience also features literary reading circles in designated spaces and community activities in the greenhouse. By seamlessly integrating heritage, modern art, and the surrounding landscape, the institution offers an engaging environment where travelers and local communities connect.
Interactive children's art and science exhibition in Reykjavik.
Uncover the fascinating ecosystem of Nordic insects through creative play and illustrations. Children can enjoy watercolor displays, climbing frames, and hands-on games designed to spark curiosity about our natural world.
Insect Exhibition
An interdisciplinary study of environmental change through contemporary art.
Experience how contemporary artists and environmental scientists translate climate data and indigenous knowledge into creative forms. This presentation features diverse media, including photography, textile art, and installations, to explore our connection to changing glaciers.
Ripples Exhibition
An interactive journey into northern nature and creative storytelling.
Discover a dynamic space featuring collaborative artworks by students from Höfn, Snæfellsbær, and Hagaskóli. Visitors of all ages can play, design paper clouds, and explore glacier-inspired environments. Free group tours are available for booking.
Explore The North
Contemporary textiles and craft at DesignMarch 2026.
Discover a curated collection of contemporary fashion, interactive archives, and photography showcasing Icelandic heritage. Engage with local design talents and explore how traditional craftsmanship bridges personal history and modern practice in this cultural showcase.
View Exhibition Details
Collaborative photography by emerging Nordic vocational students.
Delve into an artistic exploration of cultural and physical limits through the lenses of talented young photographers. This collaborative project unites student voices from Finland, Iceland, and Sweden to showcase contemporary media education in the Nordic countries.
View Exhibition Info
Whimsical papier-mâché sculptures and interactive food art.
See the colorful, oversized culinary creations of artist Estelle Pollaert at The Nordic House Reykjavík. This site-specific installation features playful papier-mâché figures that invite visitors to participate.
Hot-Dog Poetry Exhibition
Creative primary school student art inspired by Arctic landscapes.
View vibrant mixed media projects created by local schoolchildren at the Nordic House. This Reykjavik exhibition showcases young artistic talent through painting, textile work, and video art.
Exhibitions
Artworks examining soil regeneration and environmental ecosystems.
Discover contemporary artworks by a diverse group of international artists at The Nordic House. This exhibition explores soil as a vital, living archive of our planet, encouraging a deeper connection to non-human temporalities and environmental renewal.
View Membrane ExhibitionOpened in 1968, The Nordic House in Reykjavik was established to foster *cultural connections* between Iceland and other Nordic nations. The building is a modernist work designed by architect Alvar Aalto, featuring an organic ultramarine-tiled roof. Construction was supervised by Elissa Aalto alongside project architect Ilona Lehtinen.
Visual highlights of The Nordic House in Reykjavik showcase the striking modernist architecture designed by Alvar Aalto. Gallery images capture the white facade and dark angular roof reflecting clearly in the adjacent pond. Visitors can also preview the bright exhibition spaces inside, which host contemporary Baltic and Nordic art, literature events, and community showcases.
Locate historical exhibits and art collections in Iceland.
Search for your next cultural stop in the Icelandic capital. Discover venues dedicated to maritime history, ancient settlement sagas, and modern creativity. Identify cultural attractions that match your personal interests for an enriching trip.
