Askja (building)

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Askja is a building that belongs to the University of Iceland, named after the volcano Askja. It houses mostly the departments of biology and geosciences. It was designed by architect Magnús Jónsson.

The building's long glass side has had an impact on the look of downtown Reykjavík as it faces the city hall on the other side of Tjörnin. It took a very long time to build due to funding problems, and has been the subject of severe criticism for what is seen as practical shortcomings and susceptibility to the Icelandic climate.

[edit] Design and building

• 1994, design, by architect Magnús Jónsson, of Askja began.
• Between 1996 and 2001, the outside of Askja was finished.
• The first emploeyees moved in Askja, November 2003.
• Early 2004, the last employees moved in, and teaching began in Askja.
• The name Askja, was picked from 2534 suggestions, and the person who suggested the name was awarded 100.000 ISK.