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Climate Façade and Insulated Glass Pavilion Merging Film with Nature

Authors:
Shin young Park, Sang hee Yoon, Jiwoo Kim
Climate Façade and Insulated Glass Pavilion Merging Film with Nature

Project in-detail

With its climate-responsive façade of insulated glass and strategic integration of artificial landscapes, the pavilion serves as a cultural gathering space that connects film enthusiasts with Iceland's natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's design mimics the shape of a movie projector, enhancing its cinematic theme.
02
The climate-responsive façade features an outer layer of insulated glass for energy efficiency.
03
Artificial landscapes within the pavilion reflect Iceland's diverse geography.
04
Photovoltaic panels on the roof are discreetly integrated to maintain visual harmony.
05
Circulation paths ensure smooth movement for both visitors and staff throughout the space.

The Nature Projector is located near Grjotagja in Vogar Farmland, Iceland, serving as a cultural hub for film enthusiasts. This pavilion combines elements of cinema and the natural surroundings, taking inspiration from the shape of a movie projector. The design not only highlights the connection between film and nature but also enhances public interest in Iceland's cinematic heritage and stunning landscapes.

Design Concept

The design concept centers on linking cinematic experiences with the beauty of the Icelandic landscape. Within the pavilion, a central gathering area is created to welcome visitors. This space is not just functional; it invites interaction among people. An artificial landscape mirrors Iceland's varied geography, providing an immersive setting that connects visitors to the themes of film and nature.

Spatial Arrangement

Spatial planning plays a significant role in how the pavilion feels and functions. The layout features gardens inspired by local canyons and rock formations. These elements enhance the visitor experience and establish a dialogue with the surrounding environment. By integrating these natural references, the design creates a strong connection between the built environment and the landscape, making the pavilion an engaging space for discovery and reflection.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a priority in the design of the Nature Projector. The façade consists entirely of insulated glass, featuring a climate-responsive system. This includes an outer layer of floor-to-ceiling insulated glass alongside an inner layer that reflects sunlight. Such a design maximizes energy efficiency while reducing maintenance efforts. The green approach continues with the inclusion of photovoltaic panels on the flat roof, hidden from view to maintain the visual composition of the architecture.

Circulation and Accessibility

Circulation within the pavilion has been carefully designed to promote ease of movement for both visitors and staff. Well-defined pathways guide people throughout the space, ensuring a smooth flow. At the main entrance, an internal gate helps to control heat loss, showcasing considerations for energy efficiency. Natural light floods the inside areas, creating a warm atmosphere that connects the pavilion with the vibrant outdoor landscape, reinforcing the bond between the structure and its setting.

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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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