Ilulissat Ice Fjord Centre

Project description

Ilulissat Ice Fjord Centre 250 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle is a new experience and science center located in the UNESCO-protected area on the west coast of Greenland. The building is shaped in an elegant curve that floats lightly above the ice fjord offering a spectacular view through the valley and to the ice fjord.

The wooden framework, designed as a truss, bridges the rugged landscape. The solution of the project complex form, construction and sustainability is solved by using multidisciplinary Computational Design tools.

Parametric modeling is used from the earliest design fazes to integrate energy- and construction analysis. Through this it is possible to optimize the static and energy wise performance. The main purpose has been to design a great indoor climate with the least possible need for energy.

The 52 unique steel frames contain 80 percent recycled steel. The permafrost causes the steel frames to need less maintenance and a general longer lifespan than a wooden structure in the challenging climate.

The Ice Fjord Centre is currently nominated for the prestigious EU Mies Award 2024 and has won Azures AZ Award 2023.

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