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Basalt Columns and Natural Light in a Community-Centric Pavilion

Author:
Erin Sanchez
Basalt Columns and Natural Light in a Community-Centric Pavilion
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Constructed from basalt columns and designed to harness natural light, the pavilion creates a unique space for community engagement and film appreciation in the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced basalt columns.
02
Features a zig-zag structural arrangement for dynamic form.
03
Design integrates topographical curves to enhance spatial flow.
04
Includes large windows to maximize natural light within.
05
Focus on community interaction around film appreciation activities.

The Stone Fortress in Iceland serves as a cinematic pavilion designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape while encouraging community involvement around film. Inspired by the area’s geological characteristics, the design aims to evoke the feeling of walking through a cave, creating an immersive environment for visitors that connects with nature.

Design Concept and Structural Form

The pavilion uses basalt stone as its main material, a choice that reflects the unique geological identity of Iceland. This sturdy material contributes to the building’s stability while establishing a direct link to the landscape. The arrangement of basalt columns in a zig-zag layout creates an interesting shape that emphasizes height, giving the structure a strong presence in the natural surroundings.



Material Selection and Textural Contrast

Interior wood cladding complements the external basalt, adding a contrasting texture to the overall design. The combination of the rough stone and the smooth wood enhances the user experience as visitors interact with the space. This mix of materials not only provides visual interest but also engages people on a sensory level, making the environment more inviting.



Spatial Configuration and Natural Light

Large windows are strategically placed at the entrance, allowing natural light to fill the interior. This design choice enhances the atmosphere within the pavilion and establishes a connection to the outdoors. The arrangement of gathering areas, dining spaces, and cinema sections encourages social interaction and emphasizes the pavilion's role as a community hub.



Architectural Integration with Landscape

The overall form of the building reflects careful thought about the natural terrain. Curves derived from topographical study help the structure fit well into its environment. The varying heights of the columns create shifting light and shadow, highlighting the complexities found in nature. Attention to these details enhances the experience for visitors, making the space feel both connected to its surroundings and purposefully designed.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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