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Curvilinear Structure Utilizing Concrete and Glass for an Engaging Cinematic Pavilion in Iceland

Authors:
Donggyu Lee, Gaeun Jin, Dawon Kim, Minho Choi
Curvilinear Structure Utilizing Concrete and Glass for an Engaging Cinematic Pavilion in Iceland

Project in-detail

The curvilinear concrete and glass pavilion, designed to harmonize with the awe-inspiring Icelandic landscape, offers an immersive cinematic experience that celebrates the invisible forces of nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion’s design utilizes a curvilinear form to mimic the flowing patterns of magnetic fields in nature.
02
Sustainable concrete and glass materials enhance durability while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Each theater features angled screens that optimize viewer engagement and interaction with film content.
04
The architecture incorporates natural light through extensive glazing, creating a seamless connection between indoor spaces and the outdoors.
05
Community areas are designed for flexibility, allowing for various activities beyond film screenings.
The "CINEMAGNETIC" project is an architectural endeavor situated in Iceland that serves as a pavilion dedicated to cinematic experiences while fostering a profound connection with the natural environment. This project represents an engaging interface between culture and nature, utilizing the unique characteristics of Iceland's landscapes and climatic phenomena. The architectural design accentuates the synergy between visual media and the invisible forces of nature, particularly drawing inspiration from the extraordinary aurora borealis.

Functionally, the pavilion is designed to host multiple theaters, providing spaces for film screenings, community activities, and individual reflection. These theaters are configured in a manner that maximizes the interaction between the indoor cinematic experience and the outdoor environment. Each viewing area is oriented to frame the breathtaking Icelandic scenery, allowing audiences to appreciate both film and nature simultaneously. In essence, the architecture acts as a bridge between the artificial realm of cinema and the powerful displays of the natural world.

A significant aspect of the architectural design is its emphasis on materiality. The use of concrete as a primary construction material offers structural resilience and adaptability, reflecting both the harshness and beauty of the surrounding landscape. Glass plays a crucial role in the design, strategically employed to enhance visibility and create a seamless transition between inside and outside. The transparency of glass allows natural light to filter into the spaces, enriching the viewer's experience while providing captivating vistas of the landscape. Additionally, a steel framework supports the overall structure, enabling the creation of dynamic forms that suggest movement and organic flow, reminiscent of magnetic fields.

Unique design approaches have been employed throughout the project to further engage users with their surroundings. One notable feature is the innovative use of architectural screens, which are tilted at varying angles to optimize visual engagement. This design choice not only enhances the viewing experience but also fosters an interactive relationship with the content being presented. Audiences are encouraged to respond and engage with the films in a holistic manner that considers both the cinematic narrative and the environmental cues outside.

The pavilion's design also integrates spaces meant for community interactions and informal gatherings, reinforcing its role as a cultural hub. These adaptable areas promote social engagement and provide opportunities for attendees to connect with one another, offering a critical complement to the more isolated experience of viewing a film. This focus on community embodies the project's intention to create a setting that is enriching both socially and culturally, embodying the spirit of collaboration that is integral to Icelandic culture.

As the project unfolds, it invites exploration of architectural plans, sections, and designs that illuminate its spatial organization and conceptual underpinnings. The inclusion of natural elements within its landscape design further enhances the architectural context, establishing a dialogue between built and unbuilt environments. The careful crafting of spaces that cater to both individual and collective experiences speaks to the nuanced understanding of design required in this type of project.

In reviewing the "CINEMAGNETIC" project, one can appreciate how architecture can highlight the unseen relationships that define our natural world while fostering a rich cinematic culture. The emphasis on connecting architecture to the invisible aspects of nature, paired with innovative design choices, makes this a project worth exploring in depth. Readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation for more detailed insights, including architectural plans and sections that reveal the architectural ideas at play and their embodiment of Iceland's unique character.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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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