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Basalt Integration with Observational Spaces in a Northern Environment

Author:
Weronika Trzasko
Basalt Integration with Observational Spaces in a Northern Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating basalt and wood, the Pavilion offers dedicated observational spaces designed to enhance the experience of viewing the Northern Lights while serving as a contemporary cinema.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pavilion oriented north for optimal Northern Lights viewing.
02
Dedicated observation areas enhance visitor engagement with nature.
03
Basalt and wood materials reflect local geological characteristics.
04
Café and mezzanine design encourages social interaction.
05
Specially designed roof provides expansive landscape views.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is situated in the stunning landscape of Iceland, dedicated to providing a unique combination of cinematic experiences and opportunities for visitors to connect with nature. The design concept focuses on creating spaces that invite observation of the region’s remarkable phenomena, particularly the Northern Lights. This Pavilion balances function and form to foster a deeper appreciation of the surrounding environment.

Architectural Concept

The design promotes a relationship between the building and its natural surroundings. It is organized into three main observation areas. The cinema room occupies the southern section, creating an immersive space for filmgoers. Conversely, the northern part is intentionally left open to allow visitors to enjoy the landscape and scenic views.



Zoning and Arrangement

At its center, a lower hall features a café that serves as a communal gathering spot. Visitors can relax here, connecting with each other in a welcoming atmosphere. Above this lower hall, a mezzanine includes a bar area that offers elevated views of the surroundings. This thoughtful arrangement encourages people to move through the space while appreciating the connection between indoors and outdoors.



Materiality and Aesthetic Integration

The Pavilion uses natural materials that reflect the local environment. Basalt slabs and wood are incorporated throughout the design, emphasizing the geological characteristics of Iceland. These choices not only support the structural integrity of the building but also help it blend harmoniously with the landscape, enhancing the visitor experience.



Connection to Nature

Orientation is a crucial aspect of the building's relationship with its environment. By facing north, the design allows optimal viewing of the Northern Lights, aligning with the Pavilion's purpose as a platform for experiencing natural beauty. This careful positioning emphasizes the architectural intent to draw visitors closer to the vibrant landscape and its remarkable features.



A specially designed roof invites visitors to immerse themselves fully in the broad vistas around them. This detail reinforces the Pavilion's role in bridging human presence with the enchanting aspects of nature. The layout encourages a meaningful interaction with the environment, allowing people to observe and appreciate Iceland’s breathtaking scenery.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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