Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Basalt Formations Enhancing Cinematic Experience Amid Translucent Surfaces

Authors:
Hwang Yunjeong, Lee Jiho
Basalt Formations Enhancing Cinematic Experience Amid Translucent Surfaces
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed from basalt and polycarbonate, the pavilion seamlessly integrates with Iceland's rugged landscape while providing an engaging space for cinematic exhibitions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflects regional geology through the use of basalt materials.
02
Features a sloped interior that mimics Iceland’s varied terrain.
03
Utilizes polycarbonate panels to create transparency and light interaction.
04
Incorporates layers that symbolize Icelandic cultural narratives.
05
Designed to engage visitors with both film and the surrounding landscape.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is a cultural space designed to showcase cinema while honoring the unique environment of Iceland. Situated amidst dramatic landscapes, the pavilion invites visitors to experience storytelling through film and the surrounding natural beauty. Its overall concept reflects a deep connection to the land, drawing inspiration from the elemental forces of fire and ice that define Iceland's geography.

Architectural Response to Landscape
-
The form captures the solidity of basalt, a material iconic to Iceland’s landscape. This choice establishes a strong relationship between the building and its site. The use of basalt allows the pavilion to emerge from the ground, making it feel like a natural extension of the landscape. The architecture reflects the rugged beauty of the environment and serves as a reminder of the cultural narratives present in Icelandic history.

Spatial Experience and Organization
-
Inside the pavilion, a gentle slope guides visitors upward, creating a progression that mirrors Iceland's varied terrain. This journey fosters a sense of exploration, inviting occupants to engage with the space. Movement through the pavilion becomes an experience in itself, encouraging reflection on the stories that the architecture is meant to tell. Each step leads deeper into an understanding of the cultural and historical context of the site.

Material Interaction
-
Transparent polycarbonate panels contrast with the heavy basalt, introducing natural light into the interior. Light filters through these panels, enhancing the atmosphere within the pavilion. This choice allows for interaction between the inside and outside, connecting visitors to the landscape while they explore the space. The design creates opportunities for observation and engagement, emphasizing the relationship between the building and its surroundings.

Interior Details
-
Layers in the design symbolize the complex history of Iceland, representing narratives shaped by time and culture. Inside, the layout intricately connects different spaces, revealing the rich cultural context of the land. The simplicity of the exterior hides a more complex interior, where every detail serves to reflect the environment and the stories held within. The pavilion stands not just as a building, but as a tribute to Iceland's natural and cultural heritage.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in