The winners of the design competition of a building around the archaeological remains of a well-preserved Viking longhouse in Stöng in Þjórsárdalur, South Iceland, were announced last week: architects Karl Kvaran and Sahar Ghaderi from Iran.

Hekla. Photo by Páll Stefánsson.

The duo has mostly collaborated on architectural designs on the European mainland, mainly in France, ruv.is reports.

“It is an extremely beautiful place, striking nature and I liked it very, very much,” commented Ghaderi.

The ancient manor farm was destroyed in a volcanic eruption from Hekla in 1104 and wasn’t excavated until 1939. The remains are currently covered by a corrugated iron shed.

“The building is in poor condition so I think something must be done to save the remains. It is leaky and the wind blows through cracks,” added Karl.

A timber platform will now be built on top of the remains. The light that seeps through the timber walls on the sides, are to reference the dim lighting in Viking homes.

The winning design is considered profound and powerful and to create a consistent framework around these significant remains.

ESA