Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Circular Pavilion Embracing Hverfjall with Flexible Theatre Space

Author:
Aziz Bahou
Circular Pavilion Embracing Hverfjall with Flexible Theatre Space
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
A circular, sunken form merges with the landscape near Hverfjall, offering a flexible theatre space that invites diverse artistic expressions while fostering a connection with the surrounding Icelandic environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances structural stability and energy efficiency.
02
Sunken form integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
03
Flexible theatre space accommodates various artistic activities.
04
Meandering walkway provides visual connections to Hverfjall Volcano.
05
Large openings frame views, fostering indoor-outdoor interaction.

The design emerges within the distinctive landscape of Iceland, reflecting the character of its environment and the essence of Icelandic cinema. It features a circular form that is integrated into a flat and sparse site. This structure functions as a flexible theatre space, capable of hosting a variety of artistic performances and community events. The overall design emphasizes harmony with the surroundings, creating a dialogue between the interior and the vast Icelandic landscape.

Programmatic Flexibility

At the heart of the design is the flexible theatre space, which accommodates different activities such as film screenings, exhibitions, and cultural gatherings. Unlike traditional theaters, this space is designed for interaction. Large openings allow natural light to flood the interior, connecting users with the views of the outside. The atmosphere thus becomes inviting and engaging, promoting a sense of community.

Environmental Integration

A meandering walkway is included in the design, enhancing how individuals interact with the site. This pathway reflects hiking trails that lead to nearby geological features like Hverfjall Volcano. Visitors are encouraged to explore the scenic area, moving along the circular walkway that provides various vantage points. This design stimulates curiosity and connection to the landscape.

Material Considerations

While specific materials are not detailed in the text, the architecture emphasizes a compact and sturdy form that responds to environmental conditions. The circular design optimizes structural strength while reducing surface area, which in turn improves energy efficiency. This commitment to simplicity highlights a sensitivity to both the landscape and environmental considerations.

The pavilion invites a deeper engagement with Iceland’s natural beauty. Its design showcases a respectful relationship between the built environment and the rich cultural backdrop, providing functional space for various forms of artistic expression. The structure stands as a testament to the artistic spirit of Iceland, reflecting the nuances of its unique landscapes.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

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 23 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy