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Charred Wood Shingles and Zinc Cladding Define A Cinema Pavilion That Connects With Its Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Michael Carlson
Charred Wood Shingles and Zinc Cladding Define A Cinema Pavilion That Connects With Its Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Charred wood shingles and zinc cladding integrate seamlessly into the rugged Icelandic landscape, creating a multifunctional cinema pavilion that not only showcases film but also celebrates local culture and natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles used as exterior cladding enhance durability against harsh weather.
02
A bent A-frame design allows for increased spatial efficiency and unique aesthetics.
03
Zinc cladding integrates with the landscape while providing weather resistance.
04
Geothermal heating systems sustainably manage temperature year-round.
05
Large glass panels create visual connectivity between interior spaces and the surrounding scenery.

The Icelandic Cinema Pavilion serves as a contemporary architectural project located near Myvatn, Iceland. This facility is designed to provide a space for cinema, cultural exhibitions, and community engagement, all while integrating seamlessly into its natural surroundings. The Pavilion reflects the unique geological and cultural characteristics of Iceland, using local materials and design principles that resonate with the environment.

A key function of the Pavilion is to host film screenings and cultural events, reinforcing its role as a community hub. The building houses a 50-seat theater designed for cinematic presentations, as well as gallery spaces that exhibit the artistic and historical narratives of Icelandic cinema. Additionally, it includes visitor amenities such as a café and lounge areas that enhance the user experience by offering panoramic views of the landscape.

The architectural design of the Pavilion stands out in several notable aspects. First, the angular roof and facade are derived from the surrounding terrain, creating a visual connection to the rugged Icelandic landscape. This thoughtful relationship between form and environment supports a design philosophy that prioritizes context-sensitive architecture. The structural elements incorporate materials such as zinc for the exterior cladding, charred wood for both aesthetic and structural purposes, and large glass panels to promote natural lighting and views.

Energy efficiency is another important design consideration. The Pavilion utilizes geothermal heating and ground source heat pumps for temperature regulation while incorporating passive ventilation strategies to maintain comfort. Solar panels are also planned for installation to ensure energy sustainability, reinforcing the commitment to ecological design.

The provision of accessible features, including ramps and open viewing areas, demonstrates an inclusive design approach. These elements ensure that all visitors can engage with the Pavilion's offerings, further establishing it as a welcoming community resource.

For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail the innovative ideas employed throughout the project. This exploration will provide deeper insights into the design concepts that make the Icelandic Cinema Pavilion a noteworthy addition to the architectural landscape.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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