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Concrete Structure Embracing Nature with Panoramic Views and Telescopes

Author:
Khrystyna Skorik
Concrete Structure Embracing Nature with Panoramic Views and Telescopes

Project in-detail

Exposed aggregate concrete and textured 3D panels create a direct connection to the nearby caves, while large glass windows and a telescope-equipped terrace enhance the visitor experience in a new cinema pavilion.
5 key facts about this project
01
Exposed aggregate concrete mirrors the textures of nearby caves.
02
Large glass windows ensure panoramic views and abundant natural light.
03
A terrace with telescopes enhances visitor engagement with the landscape.
04
Interior walls are covered with 3D panels that imitate natural stone.
05
The layout prioritizes social interaction within a community-focused café.

Kvikmyndopolis is a movie pavilion located near the Grjótagjá caves and Myvatn Nature Bath in Iceland. It functions as a space for film screenings while also allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area. The design focuses on creating connections between the inside and outside, enhancing the relationship between built form and landscape.

Connection to Landscape
The design uses large glass windows that open the interior to the surrounding scenery. These windows provide clear views of the landscape while allowing natural light to fill the building. A terrace equipped with telescopes invites visitors to explore and engage with their surroundings, promoting a sense of curiosity about the natural environment.

Functional Spaces
Inside, the pavilion includes a café designed to seat around 50 guests. It serves as a meeting place where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments together. The layout encourages social interaction and is designed for ease of movement, making it accessible for everyone.

Materiality and Aesthetic
Materials are carefully chosen to reflect the local context. Exposed aggregate concrete evokes the textures found in the nearby caves, creating a strong link between the building and its environment. The cinema hall features dark colors to foster a cozy atmosphere for film viewing. Wall coverings made of plastic 3D panels are designed to mimic the natural stone textures, reinforcing the overall aesthetic.

Architectural Integration
The layout of Kvikmyndopolis includes important spaces such as a ticket office, cloakroom, administrative areas, and restrooms. This organization supports smooth visitor flow and enhances the overall experience. A glass roof brings in abundant daylight, creating an airy feel and emphasizing the connection to the landscape.

The design captures light and shadow, echoing the natural shapes found in the surroundings, while serving as both a venue for cultural events and a tribute to the beauty of Iceland.

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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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