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Cave-Inspired Pavilion Featuring Natural Wood and Abundant Light

Authors:
Colin Heinz, Tim Mehr
Cave-Inspired Pavilion Featuring Natural Wood and Abundant Light
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Inspired by cave forms and constructed with natural wood, the pavilion merges cultural heritage with modern design, serving as a venue for exploring Iceland's film history.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by Viking tent structures to emphasize a connection with nature.
02
Utilizes large floor-to-ceiling windows for enhanced natural light.
03
Incorporates cave-like forms in the interior layout for fluid movement.
04
Features a cinema for showcasing Iceland's film heritage.
05
Constructed primarily from wood to align with sustainable practices.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is located in the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. It draws on the country’s rich culture and history, reflecting the traditional tent structures used by the Vikings. This design emphasizes a close relationship with nature and serves a dual purpose of being a cultural landmark and an engaging space for visitors to explore Iceland’s cinematic past.

Design Concept

The pavilion’s shape resembles a tent, which connects it visually and contextually to its surroundings. This form helps it stand out in the landscape, making it easily identifiable. The design encourages visitors to approach and experience the space, positioning the building as a significant part of the local area.



Interior and Light

Large windows cover much of the facade, allowing natural light to enter the building. This connection between the inside and outside spaces creates a warm atmosphere that invites exploration. The beautiful landscape of Iceland becomes a living backdrop for visitors inside the pavilion, enhancing their experience.



Cultural Engagement

The ground floor functions as a key area that connects historical context to modern experiences. The layout includes forms inspired by caves, linking to ancient ways of living. A cinema on this level offers visitors a chance to learn about Iceland’s film history, creating a space for cultural engagement that complements the overall purpose of the pavilion.



Materiality and Sustainability

The design focuses on sustainable practices, notably using wood as the primary building material. This choice is consistent with ecological construction standards aimed at lowering environmental impact. While the specific details of the materials may not be fully outlined, the intention is clear: to create a building that fits well within its natural surroundings.



The pavilion ultimately demonstrates a thoughtful approach to architecture. It combines light, form, and practical use, all while respecting the cultural and environmental aspects of Iceland.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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