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Charred Wood Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Define A Cultural Hub Built Within Iceland's Unique Landscape

Authors:
Costantino Enriquez, Santiago Lopez, Santiago Attias
Charred Wood Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Define A Cultural Hub Built Within Iceland's Unique Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and reinforced concrete, the structure elegantly emerges from Iceland's rugged terrain, serving as a versatile cultural hub for film screenings and community gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a connection to traditional Icelandic building techniques.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, providing a lightweight yet strong structural solution.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Designed with terraces and lookout points that create communal spaces for gathering and enjoying panoramic vistas.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through efficient insulation methods and the use of locally sourced materials.
The Vogar Movie Pavilion is a thoughtfully conceived architectural project located in Iceland, designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape characterized by its unique lava fields and expansive vistas. This pavilion serves not only as a venue for film screenings but also functions as a cultural hub, encouraging community interaction and engagement. The design represents a deep respect for Icelandic nature while addressing the contemporary needs of a communal space for artistic expression.

The structure is organized in a series of interconnected volumes, which facilitate an intuitive flow for visitors. The layout guides individuals through various functional areas, including an auditorium, galleries, and multi-purpose spaces. This organization allows for versatile usage, making it suitable for a variety of events beyond just film viewings. The design intention is to create a seamless experience that connects patrons with the landscape and the artistic offerings within.

Key to the project’s architecture is its materiality. Reinforced concrete forms the backbone of the structure, providing durability while echoing the geological characteristics of the surrounding terrain. This choice of material not only ensures the building's longevity but also establishes a visual connection to the rugged Icelandic earth. The use of wood finishes, both engineered and solid, introduces warmth into the interior spaces, counterbalancing the starkness of the concrete. This element enhances the comfort level within the main auditorium and other communal areas. Gray carpet finishes in critical spaces further optimize acoustics, ensuring that sound quality complements the viewing experience.

Glass elements strategically incorporated into the design serve a dual purpose: they allow an abundance of natural light to flood the interior, creating a welcoming atmosphere, while also providing breathtaking views of the external landscape. This interplay between light and nature is an essential aspect of the pavilion, allowing visitors to feel engaged and connected to the surrounding environment.

One of the most notable features of the Vogar Movie Pavilion is its auditorium. Designed with a graduated seating arrangement, it not only enhances sightlines but also fosters a sense of intimacy, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in cinematic experiences. Furthermore, the incorporation of sustainable practices reflects Iceland's commitment to environmental responsibility. The pavilion features energy-efficient insulation methods and an orientation that maximizes passive solar gain, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems.

The pavilion invites exploration and interaction through its terraces and lookout points, which provide spaces for social gathering while appreciating panoramic views of the natural landscape. Rather than serving solely as a cinematic venue, these elements position the structure as a place of cultural significance, fostering a sense of community among residents and visitors alike.

In summary, the Vogar Movie Pavilion stands as a testament to the thoughtful integration of architectural design with natural landscape. It represents a synthesis of functionality, aesthetic consideration, and ecological responsibility, embodying a vision of contemporary architecture that respects and resonates with its geographical context. For a deeper insight into this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that detail the creativity and intention behind this remarkable architectural endeavor.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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