Basalt Architects designed the Icelandic products area within the newly renovated ÍSLAND Duty Free departures store at Keflavík International Airport. Developed in collaboration with Gebr. Heinemann, the design draws inspiration from Iceland's distinctive landscapes, geothermal waters and volcanic formations.

The newly renovated duty-free store marks a major transformation of the retail experience at Iceland's main international gateway. Rather than adopting a conventional international airport retail concept, the ambition was to create an environment rooted in Icelandic identity, combining contemporary design with a strong emphasis on local products and brands.

At the heart of the departures store, Basalt's design translates Iceland's natural elements into an immersive retail environment. A milky blue floor recalls the distinctive colour of the Blue Lagoon, while a sculptural ceiling installation of suspended metal chains evokes the movement of geothermal steam. Custom 3D-printed displays, manufactured by Nagami using recycled plastic, partly recovered from the ocean, introduce forms inspired by ice and flowing water, contrasting with the rugged textures of volcanic materials.

The design creates a distinctive setting for Icelandic products, connecting architecture, local identity and the retail experience. Across the new ÍSLAND Duty Free store, at least 30% of the brands are Icelandic, with more than 370 m² dedicated to local products, regional storytelling and brand experiences.

The project forms part of the wider redevelopment of ÍSLAND Duty Free by Gebr. Heinemann, developed in collaboration with Checkland Kindleysides.

Explore the ÍSLAND Duty Free project and see more photos.