Action plan on design and architecture approved by the Parliament
The Althing has approved a parliamentary resolution proposal from the Minister of Culture and Business Affairs regarding an action plan on design and architecture for the years 2023 to 2026. The plan includes 14 actions that will be implemented to support the new policy on design and architecture until 2030, which was presented in February of this year.
“Our vision is that the methodology of design and architecture is intentionally used to enhance the quality of life in Iceland, focusing on value creation and sustainability for society as a whole. We can improve quality, enhance health and community life, create interesting jobs, and accelerate development and value creation by harnessing the strengths that truly exist in the Icelandic design community,” says Lilja Alfreðsdóttir, Minister of Culture and Business Affairs.
The pathways to the main objectives of the policy are linked to five priority areas: value creation, education of progressive generations, the use of design as a force for change, sustainable infrastructure development, and promotion of Icelandic design and architecture.
Value Creation
The authorities are striving to support the Icelandic business sector by increasingly focusing on industries based on creativity, high technology, innovation, and sustainable solutions. Design as methodology will be key to seizing opportunities arising from rapid technological changes and promoting increased sustainability. Efforts will be made to have broad positive impacts on the development of society and quality of life for the future by leveraging the expertise of designers, architects, and design methodologies.
Design as a Force for Change
The application of design will become an increasing factor in the development and innovation of companies and institutions, and design thinking will be used more extensively to address diverse projects and complex environmental and social challenges.
Sustainable Infrastructure
Design thinking and the specialized knowledge of designers will be utilized in the development, maintenance, and construction of infrastructure, including technical and social aspects, to promote the development of sustainable communities. There will be a focus on holistic policy-making regarding the design of infrastructure and buildings, aiming for increased sustainability, quality, and improved public health, establishing a robust interdisciplinary research environment for professionals in architecture and design and building industries.
Education of Progressive Generations
To enhance value creation in Iceland through design and architecture, awareness of the professional expertise of designers and architects will be increased, and there will be efforts to ensure that their education and skills meet the challenges of society at any given time. Educational offerings, including in areas of further education, will be subject to continuous review and will consider rapid technological developments and the nature of design-related fields. The range of educational opportunities in recent design disciplines, where there is a growing demand for specialized knowledge, such as in digital design, service and experience design, and interface design, will be increased. Work will be done to enhance interdisciplinary approaches in education, research, and collaboration.
Promotion of Icelandic Design and Architecture
Building on the foundation that has been achieved in raising awareness and interest in Icelandic design and architecture, efforts will be made to increase understanding among companies and institutions about the positive impacts of design thinking on projects, services, and organization. To increase the respect and visibility of Icelandic design, there will be an emphasis on Icelandic design and its manifestations across various fields.
The Action Plan and the process on the Parliament website
Source: stjr.is
