The United Nations Climate Change Commission Research and Education Center was designed for the gathering of data on issues of climate change and for distribution of information to the public, both local and international. The design draws in the public and generates public space, thus increasing the accessibility of this information, and creating a cultural landmark for locals and tourists alike. The building itself is designed to be a teacher of sustainable design strategies. The design is influenced by vernacular turf homes which utilize turf as an insulator from the subpolar climate of Iceland.
The design first displaced and enhanced the existing park landscape of the site by folding it upwards. A linear cut is then made which uses the traffic circle to pivot towards the predominant grid of the city facing Mount Esja. This cut is climatized to create a public galleria for use in all weather. In order to reconnect the public to the waterfront and shore walk, a ramped walkway is constructed which terminates in a public observation deck and dock for recreational and research uses.
