Grapevine’s Best Of 2016: Best Shop To Stock Up On Local Design

Reykjavík is a relatively small city, but even so, sometimes you need a bit of local advice to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a good people-watching spot, somewhere to see some contemporary art, or the best place to catch an Icelandic movie. Don’t worry, friends—we’ve got you covered via our Best of Reykjavík 2016 series. Here are some of our favourite spots in Reykjavík, for all kinds of super-fun days and nights out. Enjoy! And if you try our list, you can let us know what you thought of the selections via letters@grapevine.is.

Best Shop To Pick Up Local Design

Winner: Kraum
Bankastræti 7a
Kraum is a perennial favourite of tourists and locals alike. Opened in 2007 as a collaboration between two dozen local designers, Kraum has always defined the cutting edge of trends in Icelandic design. Now, the shop sells work by over 100 local artists and designers. You’ll find everything here from unique souvenirs to an Icelandic take on everyday items like stationary, handbags, raincoats and jewellery.

Runner up: Aurum
Bankastræti 4
Aurum has two faces: it’s a colourful concept store on one side, and sells gorgeous jewellery on the other. Join the class of fashionable Reykvíkingar after picking up some clothing and nature-inspired jewellery by Guðbjörg Kristín Ingvarsdóttir, and some gifts and souvenirs for back home.

Runner up: Hrím
Laugavegur 25
It’s amazing what a difference a little fancy piece of design can make for your apartment. Starting from blank walls and a tatty sofa, you can add one soft, striped throw rug, an angle-poise lamp, a strange poster, and a fancy little cushion, and suddenly you have “tasteful minimalism.” You feel great about your place, and, by extension, your life. Wow! It’s like magic!

Previous Winners:
2015: Spark Design Space
2014: Kraum
2013: Kraum
2012: Kraum
2011: Kraum

Read more of our Best of 2016 lists here.