Architect Arnhildur Pálmadóttir Named Reykjavík City Artist Laureate 2026

Architect Arnhildur Pálmadóttir has officially accepted the title of Reykjavík City Artist Laureate for 2026. The presentation took place at Höfði, with Mayor Hildur Björnsdóttir conferring the honor.

Pálmadóttir's work and research have been recognized for their forward-thinking approach to architecture and urban planning, emphasizing sustainability and resource efficiency. Her contributions have garnered attention both within Iceland and on an international stage.

Founder of the architecture firm Sap arkitektar in 2018, Pálmadóttir has demonstrated a consistent vision in architectural design and planning. Her projects, including the Háteigsvegur 59 housing cluster which received a New European Bauhaus design award in March, highlight efforts to minimize the carbon footprint of buildings.

Pálmadóttir was also awarded the Nordic Council's Environment Prize in 2024. In 2025, she curated Iceland's pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale, where she presented her "Lavaforming" exhibition, exploring the use of Icelandic lava as a construction material.