Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion Embracing Geological Narrative Through Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Alvaro Mosquera
Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion Embracing Geological Narrative Through Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles define a cantilevered structure that echoes the region's geological narratives while serving as a community hub for cultural engagement and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance sustainability while allowing for rapid construction.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and fire protection.
03
The cantilevered design mimics geological displacement, reflecting local tectonic activity.
04
Integrated LED handrails offer functional navigation while minimizing visual impact.
05
Panoramic windows frame views of Iceland's unique landscape, fostering a connection with nature.

The Rift Pavilion, located in Iceland, is an architectural project that embodies the geological history and cultural significance of its surroundings. The design’s primary concept reflects the region's fault line, illustrating the physical and metaphorical scars of the Earth. The structure's form reflects the elements of geological displacement and creates an immersive experience for visitors while serving as a community hub.

The Pavilion's main function is to provide spaces for various activities, including cinema screenings, social gatherings, and educational events. Internally, the layout features a cinema room, café/bar area, and flexible gathering spaces. This organization encourages interaction among users, enhancing the overall experience while fostering community engagement.

The architectural design of the Rift Pavilion incorporates several unique elements. The tapered, cantilevered form mirrors the displacement of tectonic forces, offering a dynamic visual representation of the geological landscape. The Pavilion boasts an interior crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), contributing to sustainability while providing warmth and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, extensive use of precast concrete and steel I-beams ensures structural integrity, creating a robust foundation.

The project features energy-efficient systems, enhancing its sustainability and minimizing environmental impact. Integral design aspects, such as LED embedded handrails, facilitate navigation within the space. The Pavilion also integrates strategically placed windows, providing panoramic views of the surrounding scenery. This connection with the landscape reinforces the design's intent.

Furthermore, the integration of local cultural elements distinguishes the Pavilion from similar projects. By serving as a venue for Iceland's cinematic heritage, the design fosters a sense of community identity.

For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas of the Rift Pavilion, detailed resources are available for review. Engaging with these materials can provide deeper insights into this thoughtfully crafted architectural project.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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