Harpa's concert hall and conference rooms are designed to represent the natural elements of Iceland, black basalt cliffs, volcanic mountains and the ocean. Once inside the foyer, the hall's outer material is dark, reminiscent of the basalt sea cliffs while the interior of the main concert hall is clad in a natural timber with a rich red finish that represents the powerful heart of Iceland's volcanic landscape. These halls are enclosed in a glass facade that appears as a crystalline structure reflecting Reykjavik's rugged surrounding environment and the city's port and citizens. Harpa was also part of a major urban master plan that intended to make it the heart of a new arts precinct, connecting the port area with the city's centre, which was previously cut off by major roads and industrial development.
