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Curved Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion with Polycarbonate Facade

Authors:
Diana Tofan, Isak Bergwall
Curved Cross-Laminated Timber Pavilion with Polycarbonate Facade

Project in-detail

The pavilion's curved form, crafted from cross-laminated timber and enveloped in a polycarbonate facade, offers unique shelter and light for cinematic experiences against the backdrop of Myvatn's stunning landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion features a roof that is fully accessible, allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views.
02
It incorporates a drive-in cinema, offering a unique outdoor viewing experience.
03
Cross-laminated timber is used for the main structure, promoting sustainability and efficiency.
04
The design includes a courtyard inspired by local geothermal features, creating a social gathering space.
05
Polycarbonate panels provide both durability and natural lighting to the interior spaces.

The Cinematic Crater is located in the Myvatn region of Iceland. The pavilion serves as a cultural space where visitors can enjoy films while experiencing the beauty of the surrounding landscape. It uses the area’s unique geological features, particularly the craters, as inspiration for its design. The aim is to create a space that fits naturally into the environment and meets the needs of the community.

Architectural Concept

The design focuses on creating a strong connection between the building and its natural surroundings. The pavilion has a curved shape that reflects the contours of the nearby craters, enhancing the visual relationship with the landscape. Its orientation is carefully planned to allow natural light to enter, giving visitors clear views of Hverfjall mountain and the diverse geothermal features around them.

Material Selection

Materials are chosen with care to support sustainability and strength. The primary structure uses cross-laminated timber, which allows for quick assembly while providing stability. The facade of the building is made from polycarbonate, a material that helps to improve energy efficiency. This choice lets natural light fill the interior, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.

Functional Spaces

The layout includes spaces designed for community gatherings and events. The main auditorium can hold up to 50 guests, providing a place for film screenings and other cultural activities. Additionally, a drive-in cinema offers more options for viewing films in an outdoor setting. This combination of spaces encourages visitor interaction and enhances the cultural experience.

Courtyard Design

A courtyard at the pavilion's center acts as an outdoor area for gathering and relaxation. Inspired by the local landscape, this green space includes seating that invites visitors to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The design also provides shelter for guests during colder weather, further enhancing their experience.

The pavilion features a roof that is accessible to visitors, allowing them to enjoy panoramic views of the stunning landscape. This aspect reinforces the connection between the building and the Myvatn region, making the experience of visiting both enjoyable and memorable.

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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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