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Charred Wood and Zinc Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Landscapes

Author:
Michael Carlson
Charred Wood and Zinc Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood and zinc, the Pavilion harmonizes with the rugged Icelandic landscape while providing a dynamic space for cinematic experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed on a berm using excavated materials from the site.
02
Programmable LED lighting highlights the central spine.
03
Layers of multimedia projections enhance visitor engagement.
04
Walls taper inward to create dynamic spatial experiences.
05
Panoramic views from the Gathering Deck connect visitors to the landscape.

The Icelandic Cinema Pavilion (ICP) is located in the dramatic Icelandic landscape, marked by its rugged natural features. Serving as a cultural center, it draws both locals and visitors to engage in a cinematic experience. The design aims to guide people through an exploration of space and place, highlighting the relationship between the building and its surroundings.

Spatial Experience

The design features an angular profile that gradually reveals itself to visitors approaching from the highway. This method builds anticipation and invites curiosity about the Pavilion's purpose. A central spine made of glass ramps allows for easy movement between levels. This vertical journey reflects the feeling of hiking through Iceland’s varied terrain, fostering a sense of connection to the landscape.

Materiality and Light

Zinc, charred wood, and glass are the chosen materials for construction, fitting well with Iceland's minimalist architectural style. These materials have been selected not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their durability in Iceland’s climate. The central spine is highlighted by programmable aurora-based LED lighting that enhances its vertical features. This illumination offers a warm presence against the stark winter backdrop.

Engagement with Landscape

The building includes multimedia elements that surround visitors, enriching their experience as they move through different spaces. These visual projections aim to create an emotional connection to the landscape and narratives of the place. The experience culminates at the Gathering Deck, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the tranquil natural surroundings.

Design Details

Walls that taper inward contribute to a unique spatial experience, encouraging both compression and expansion as people navigate through the Pavilion. This thoughtful design detail emphasizes the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Well-crafted transitions between the various areas enhance the experience and deepen the Pavilion's ties to the striking landscape of Iceland.

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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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