#Iceland #Reykjavik #Iceland Design #SOAK #Basalt Architects

SOAK: A New Perspective on Social Spaces

The Icelandic Pavilion at the 20th International Architecture Exhibition—La Biennale di Venezia—has brought forth a thought-provoking exhibit titled SOAK: Rituals of Collective Belonging. Led by Halla Helgadóttir, the pavilion embarks on a unique exploration of Icelandic bathing culture, presenting it as an essential counter-narrative to modern social isolation.

Curated by the renowned Marcos Zotes, partner at Basalt Architects, this innovative display not only showcases architecture but also delves into the deeper societal frameworks that surround communal spaces. The exhibition is a multidisciplinary collaboration, incorporating talents from Basalt Architects, the design studio Gagarin, and artist Rán Flygenring to paint a holistic picture of Icelandic heritage.

Reimagining Architecture and Public Spaces

In today's world, where both physical and digital separations are rampant, SOAK positions the geothermal pool as a quintessential democratic space. This exhibit redefines architecture from being merely a protective shell to a dynamic social vessel. By mapping the everyday rituals associated with Icelandic bathing practices, it portrays water as not just a natural element, but as a vital civic infrastructure that fosters collective renewal and social cohesion in increasingly fragmented societies.

According to Marcos Zotes, “In SOAK, the pavilion serves as a laboratory for the future of the everyday. We aim to shift the conversation from methods of construction to methods of coexistence.” The central theme revolves around community immersion within the geothermal pools, challenging attendees to reflect on what prevents such integration in urban environments.

Halla Helgadóttir, the commissioner of the Icelandic Pavilion, emphasized the importance of these spaces, remarking, “By presenting the geothermal pool as a ‘third space’—distinct from home or work—we initiate a crucial dialogue regarding public spaces and their role in nurturing social connections.” This discourse is timely, considering the escalating crises of urban alienation and social exclusion.

Icelandic Bathing Culture: A UNESCO Heritage

Iceland’s unique bathing traditions, celebrated as a form of Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, underscore the significance of these communal spaces. Access to natural hot water has enabled swimming pools to thrive throughout the nation, often serving as beautifully designed landmarks that double as crucial social hubs. These pools not only promote health and well-being but have also become woven into the cultural fabric and collective identity of Icelanders.

The Basalt Architects team has redefined contemporary bathing culture in Iceland, with projects like the iconic Blue Lagoon, which emphasizes environmental coherence and human comfort. Similarly, Gagarin has garnered acclaim for developing engaging experiences where visual storytelling and interactive design intersect across various platforms.

Rán Flygenring, a designer renowned for her work that blends visual art and literature, complements this multidisciplinary approach with her insights into Iceland's bathing culture. Her title Sketching Bathing in Iceland perfectly encapsulates the essence of the exhibition, using vivid imagery to present the narratives of communal bathing.

Conclusion

The Icelandic Pavilion aims not just to showcase architectural ingenuity but also to inspire a new social consciousness about the importance and potential of public spaces. Through SOAK, the exhibitions invite visitors not only to immerse in the waters of Icelandic culture but also to contemplate their own environments and the possibilities for enhanced communal living. With the Biennale di Venezia as a backdrop, SOAK acts as a vital prompt for discussions around architecture, society, and how they intertwine in the modern age.

As we move towards a future that embraces diverse forms of interaction and community building, the Icelandic Pavilion sets a compelling precedent for what it means to belong in a constantly evolving world.