SkyDeck™ Tension Wire Grid at HARPA Reykjavík
IA Stage’s SkyDeck™ tension wire grid helped bring a flexible, functional rigging solution to HARPA Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavík, Iceland. Installed in the Norðurljós Recital Hall, the custom SkyDeck™ system provides more than 3,200 square feet of overhead coverage, giving the performance space safe, convenient access to its custom lighting system while complementing HARPA’s iconic architectural design.
Since opening its doors, HARPA Concert Hall and Conference Centre in Reykjavík, Iceland, has established itself as both an architectural landmark and a cultural gem. Home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and the Icelandic Opera, HARPA has hosted a wide range of performances, events, presidential elections, and political debates.
Designed by Henning Larsen Architects in collaboration with Batteríið Architects and Danish-Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson, HARPA is known for its distinctive architecture and innovative use of light. Elíasson’s artistic influence is especially visible across the building’s exterior, where geometric glass panels create a shimmering, ever-changing façade. At night, LED lighting enhances the effect, transforming HARPA into a glowing presence along Reykjavík’s waterfront. Inside, carefully integrated lighting helps make each performance space feel like a work of art in its own right. The building’s innovative design was recognized in 2013 when HARPA received the European Union Prize for Contemporary Architecture – Mies van der Rohe Award.
Custom SkyDeck™ Tension Wire Grid for Norðurljós Recital Hall
As part of the project, InterAmerica Stage, Inc. worked with project consultant Artec Consultants, NY, to design and supervise the installation of a custom SkyDeck™ tension wire grid in HARPA’s Norðurljós Recital Hall.
The project called for a variation on the typical SkyDeck™ design. Each panel was custom fabricated as a perfect square, creating a clean, uniform pattern across the ceiling. The resulting grid delivers a modern, industrial aesthetic that complements HARPA’s contemporary architectural design while providing a highly functional solution for theater rigging and lighting access.
The SkyDeck™ system covers more than 3,200 square feet, providing complete overhead coverage and convenient access to the recital hall’s custom lighting system. Its walkable surface also helps streamline event preparation and load-ins. With the two-story event space below, crews can continue setting up for an event while work safely takes place overhead.
Looking back, the Norðurljós Recital Hall installation demonstrates how a tension wire grid can be customized to meet both the functional requirements of a performance venue and the architectural vision of a landmark building.
If you find yourself in Reykjavík, HARPA is well worth a visit—not only for its world-class performances, but also to experience its remarkable architecture and innovative design firsthand.
For more information, please visit their website here.