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Curvilinear Structure Featuring Glass Walls and Natural Wood Elements for Cinematic Experience

Authors:
Kaito Mizuta, Ruki Nagashima, zewen dai, Mai Iida
Curvilinear Structure Featuring Glass Walls and Natural Wood Elements for Cinematic Experience

Project in-detail

Defined by its curvilinear form and transparent glass walls, the design creates an immersive experience that seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape while serving as a vibrant hub for cinematic gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates extensive glass walls to create a seamless connection between interior and exterior environments.
02
The curvilinear roof structure adapts to the local topography, enhancing integration with the landscape.
03
A unique tiered seating arrangement ensures optimal views of both the screen and the night sky.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer not only aesthetic appeal but also natural durability against harsh weather conditions.
05
The pavilion features an excavated communal area that invites social interaction while grounding the experience in nature.
The Moon Cinema is an architectural project designed to create a unique cinematic experience in the captivating landscape of Iceland. This structure deftly merges functional space with artistic expression, capturing the connection between cinema and the cosmos. The design of the Moon Cinema reflects a profound understanding of the natural environment, where sweeping curves and fluid lines allow the architecture to harmonize with Iceland's dramatic scenery. At its core, the project aims to engage visitors in a dialogue with celestial phenomena, underscoring cinema's ability to transport audiences beyond the confines of reality.

The primary function of the Moon Cinema is to serve as a modern pavilion dedicated to film screenings and community gatherings. It is equipped to accommodate varied activities—ranging from intimate movie showings to larger public events. The architectural plans reveal a flexible interior layout that includes a primary theater room surrounded by glass walls, offering unobstructed views that integrate the exterior landscape into the cinematic experience. This deliberate design fosters a tranquil atmosphere, allowing visitors to feel both a part of and separate from nature.

One of the notable features of the Moon Cinema is its distinctive roof form, which rises toward the sky in a series of graceful slopes. The architecture embodies verticality, inviting visitors to connect with their surroundings while emphasizing the theme of reaching for the stars. This design approach not only enhances the visual appeal of the structure but also symbolizes a broader aspiration towards exploration and discovery, reflecting the nature of storytelling in film.

Within the interior, the glass cathedral serves as the heart of the Moon Cinema. This space is characterized by its transparent walls, creating a seamless link between the interior and the natural world. As daylight pours into the theater, it transforms the viewing experience, making the wonder of the outside environment a part of the cinematic narrative. Furthermore, the tiered seating arrangement in the theater is designed for optimal viewing, allowing patrons to immerse themselves fully in both the film and the surrounding ambiance.

The gathering space within the Moon Cinema adds another layer to its functionality. Here, visitors can congregate before or after screenings, fostering community interactions in an environment that celebrates film culture. The design encourages social exchange while anchoring the experience in the scenic beauty of the Icelandic landscape, with features that mimic the natural formations found nearby.

When discussing materiality, the Moon Cinema emphasizes a careful selection of materials that not only meets functional requirements but also resonates with environmental aesthetics. The extensive use of glass ensures that light and views of the outer environment play a critical role in the overall experience. Reinforced concrete provides durability and stability, while metal elements contribute to the modern character of the structure.

The Moon Cinema is noteworthy for its ability to evoke a sense of wonder while remaining grounded in its physical context. It does not merely aim to house film screenings; rather, it serves as a catalyst for reflection, inviting visitors to consider the narratives presented on screen in conjunction with the magnificent natural phenomena that characterize Iceland. This architecture-inspired design approach, blending functional cinema space with an immersive experience, illustrates how thoughtfully executed projects can cultivate a deeper appreciation for both art and nature.

Readers interested in delving deeper into the project are encouraged to explore architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that provide further insights into the Moon Cinema's creative development. Each aspect of the project reflects a commitment to innovative architectural ideas, showcasing a design that resonates with both its users and the surrounding environment. By examining these components, one can gain a fuller understanding of the Moon Cinema and its significance in contemporary architecture.
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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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