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Curvilinear Forms Embracing Natural Light in a Multi-Functional Pavilion

Author:
Hui Guo
Curvilinear Forms Embracing Natural Light in a Multi-Functional Pavilion
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A series of curvilinear forms create an immersive experience of natural light and connectivity within a multi-functional pavilion designed to foster community engagement through various activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear walls create a fluid connection between indoor and outdoor environments.
02
The design captures and enhances natural light throughout the day.
03
Multi-functional spaces promote varied community activities under one roof.
04
The layout encourages social interaction and movement among visitors.
05
Integrated landscaping blurs the boundaries between the pavilion and its surroundings.

The Soft Edge Iceland Movie Pavilion integrates the built environment with the natural landscape of Iceland. Located in a stunning setting, the pavilion serves multiple functions, including areas for film viewing, social interaction, and community gatherings. The design concept centers around curvilinear forms that promote a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a connection with the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

Curvilinear forms define the design of the pavilion, creating a strong relationship between the interior and exterior. These flowing shapes allow for a creative transition where visitors can engage with both the building and the landscape. The design blurs the lines between built and natural spaces, inviting occupants to experience the environment in a more unified way.

Functional Layout

The layout of the pavilion is carefully organized, with distinct but interconnected areas such as a movie theatre, café/bar, terrace, and various multifunctional spaces like an atrium and gallery. Each space is arranged to facilitate movement and interaction, encouraging visitors to engage with one another. This thoughtful organization addresses the needs of the community and creates a space that can accommodate various activities.

Light and Atmosphere

The play of light and shadow is an important aspect of the pavilion's design. The curved walls are designed to capture natural light, creating unique interior settings that change throughout the day. This attention to light enhances the overall experience within the pavilion, making it feel warm and inviting. It draws visitors into the space and encourages them to connect with both the architecture and the environment around them.

Inside the pavilion, a variety of spaces invite exploration and connection. Open areas offer freedom of movement, while smaller, intimate spaces provide opportunities for quiet reflection. Each design detail is intentional, aiming to create a harmonious experience that resonates with both individuals and the community as a whole.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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