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Basalt Facade and Recycled Glass Create a Cultural Pavilion Nestled in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Azzam bre Mahaputra, Rina sari Tarigan-baumbach
Basalt Facade and Recycled Glass Create a Cultural Pavilion Nestled in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Harnessing the local basalt and repurposed glass to merge seamlessly with Iceland's volcanic landscape, the pavilion serves as a cultural hub celebrating Icelandic cinema and inviting visitors to explore the artistry within.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's facade utilizes locally sourced basalt to blend with the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Recycled glass elements are incorporated into the design, enhancing visual interest while promoting sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame roof structure optimizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
04
Gabion cages filled with native rocks provide thermal insulation and a connection to the site’s geology.
05
The pavilion features a geothermal heating system, leveraging Iceland's natural resources for efficient climate control.
The Showcase Pavilion stands as a prominent architectural endeavor nestled within the dramatic landscapes of Iceland, embodying a harmonious relationship between culture, cinema, and nature. This project serves not only as a space for artistic expression but also as a retreat for visitors, inviting them to immerse themselves in the rich cinematic heritage of Iceland while enjoying the striking scenery that surrounds them.

As a multifunctional facility, the Showcase Pavilion operates primarily as a venue for film presentations, exhibitions, and community gatherings. Its design facilitates a variety of experiences, promoting cultural engagement while prioritizing visitor comfort. Each area of the pavilion is meticulously crafted to enhance this interaction, featuring a welcoming reception that directs guests to the cinema, gallery, and café spaces. Such thoughtful spatial organization ensures that visitors can flow seamlessly throughout the building, engaging with the offered programs while also appreciating the architectural nuances.

The pavilion is characterized by its unique design features, which reflect both the geological context of Iceland and the cultural narrative it aims to convey. The architectural vocabulary employs a dynamic interplay between solid and void, encapsulated in a roof structure that allows natural light to permeate the interior while maintaining energy efficiency. This roof form is designed to engage visitors visually and experientially, providing a sense of openness that contrasts with the solidity of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Materials play a significant role in the design, with an emphasis on local resources that affirm the project's commitment to sustainability. The use of basalt aligns the structure with the rugged topography of Iceland, creating a visual and contextual link to its surroundings. Recycled glass rocks contribute an artistic element to the interior, showcasing the potential for innovative reuse of materials while adding complexity to the visual experience. Timber is incorporated as a framing element, offering warmth and an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to linger and engage with the space.

What sets the Showcase Pavilion apart is its integration with the environment and focus on sustainability. The building incorporates geothermal heating, leveraging Iceland's natural resources to reduce energy consumption. Rainwater harvesting strategies are employed to manage water sustainably, while energy-efficient solar panels enhance the building's operational capacity. Furthermore, the pavilion serves as a cultural landmark, celebrating Icelandic cinema and fostering a sense of community among local residents and visitors alike.

Designed with an acute awareness of its context, the pavilion prompts a dialogue between its architectural features and the surrounding landscape, encouraging an appreciation for both local culture and nature. The approach taken by the architects represents a conscious effort to intertwine functionality with aesthetic appeal, setting a benchmark for future architectural projects in similar environments.

Readers interested in understanding the deeper intricacies of the Showcase Pavilion are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Detailed architectural plans, sections, and sketches reveal the thought processes behind this innovative architectural design, showcasing the commitment to cultural representation and environmental stewardship. Engaging with the architectural ideas embedded within this project offers valuable insights into the nuanced relationship between design, place, and community.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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