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Charred Wood Shingles and Acoustic Design Enhance Community Experience in Icelandic Pavilion

Authors:
Costantino Enriquez, Santiago Lopez, Santiago Attias
Charred Wood Shingles and Acoustic Design Enhance Community Experience in Icelandic Pavilion

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles and designed for acoustic precision, the pavilion serves as a vibrant community space that integrates seamlessly into Iceland's unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior acoustics for cinematic experiences.
04
Designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding Icelandic topography and natural light.
05
Multipurpose spaces allow adaptability for various community events and gatherings.

The Vogar Movie Pavilion is an architectural project in Iceland designed to blend seamlessly with its surrounding landscape while providing a dedicated space for cinematic and cultural activities. The pavilion's design encapsulates the essence of the Icelandic environment, utilizing the unique geographical context to enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. The project serves as a cultural hub that not only houses a cinema but also facilitates various community events, exhibitions, and social gatherings.

The building features distinct volumetric forms that reference the geological characteristics of Iceland. These forms create a dialogue with the natural environment, allowing the pavilion to both visually and physically integrate into its setting. Large windows throughout the structure invite natural light, connecting the interior spaces with the breathtaking external views. The emphasis on creating a cohesive indoor-outdoor relationship is central to the pavilion's design philosophy.

Innovative Spatial Organization One of the standout features of the Vogar Movie Pavilion is its innovative spatial organization. The auditorium is designed with a focus on acoustics and audience engagement, providing a unique cinematic experience. Its sloped seating arrangements promote optimal viewing angles while minimizing distractions. Adjacent to the auditorium, flexible multipurpose spaces can adapt to various activities, from art exhibitions to community workshops.

The building's entrance leads visitors through a journey, engaging them in the outdoor landscape before entering structured, programmed spaces. Pathways are intentionally designed to enhance visitor movement, guiding them toward significant viewpoints that frame the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful layout encourages exploration and interaction with both the building and the natural environment.

Sustainability and Materiality The Vogar Movie Pavilion prioritizes sustainability through its choice of materials and design strategies. Reinforced concrete is the primary structural material, chosen for its durability and ability to withstand the local climatic conditions. Wood finishes add warmth to the interior spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere. The extensive use of glass not only maximizes daylight but also creates a connection with the natural surroundings, allowing for views that change with the seasons.

The design incorporates passive solar strategies, optimizing the pavilion’s orientation to enhance energy efficiency. These approaches reflect a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while providing a comfortable space for users. By embedding sustainability into its architectural design, the pavilion serves as a model for future constructions in similar environments.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Vogar Movie Pavilion will provide valuable insights into its unique context-driven design approach. This project exemplifies how contemporary architecture can harmonize with nature while serving functional community needs. Those interested in the detailed architectural ideas that shaped the Vogar Movie Pavilion are encouraged to delve into the complete project presentation for a thorough understanding.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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