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Cave-Inspired Space Crafted From Natural Wood in a Cultural Setting

Authors:
Colin Heinz, Tim Mehr
Cave-Inspired Space Crafted From Natural Wood in a Cultural Setting

Project in-detail

Inspired by cave formations and constructed from natural wood, the Pavilion serves as a cultural venue that connects visitors to Iceland's rich heritage and landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pavilion design draws inspiration from traditional Viking tent structures.
02
Constructed primarily from natural wood, emphasizing sustainability.
03
Features large floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal landscape views.
04
Ground floor layout includes both a cinema and exhibition space.
05
Shape mimics cave formations, connecting architecture with geology.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is located in the dramatic landscapes of Iceland. It serves as a cultural hub, showcasing the country's film history and connecting visitors to its natural beauty. Inspired by the traditional tent structures of the Vikings, the design brings together elements of the past with contemporary architecture. The goal is to create a welcoming space that resonates with both locals and tourists.

Concept and Design

The concept focuses on creating a connection to nature. The tent shape reflects the dwellings of the Vikings and highlights a relationship between people and their environment. This design not only pays homage to Iceland’s history but also emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with nature. The Pavilion stands as a cultural reference point, inviting curiosity and exploration.



Materiality and Sustainability

Wood is the primary material used in the Pavilion. This choice supports sustainability and minimizes environmental impact. Wood provides warmth and comfort, making the building feel inviting while blending into the natural surroundings. This material aligns well with traditional Icelandic building practices and contributes to an ecological approach.



Spatial Dynamics

Large windows fill the structure with light and enhance views of the outside landscape. This openness encourages visitors to engage with both the interior and exterior. The ground floor layout is designed for easy movement, accommodating spaces for exhibitions and a cinema dedicated to Icelandic film. Visitors can enjoy a range of experiences while moving throughout the Pavilion.



Cultural Engagement

The design reflects Iceland’s geological features through shapes reminiscent of caves. This connection evokes the sense of history that informs the architecture. Visitors are offered not only beautiful views but also the opportunity to learn about the cultural narratives that shape Iceland. The Pavilion becomes a space for storytelling, linking the past to the present.



The highest point of the Pavilion acts as a focal feature, helping visitors identify the building from afar. It adds to the structure’s presence in the landscape while reinforcing the themes of exploration and discovery inherent in the design. This thoughtful integration connects the Pavilion to its surroundings in a meaningful way.

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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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