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Elevated Gathering Space Inspired By Cave Formations

Author:
Laurens Van zuidam
Elevated Gathering Space Inspired By Cave Formations

Project in-detail

Elevated above the rugged terrain, the pavilion draws inspiration from natural cave formations and features a flexible interior that promotes community engagement through cinematic experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design that enhances views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Cave-inspired interior that promotes a sense of exploration.
03
Flexible seating arrangement to adapt to varying cinematic experiences.
04
Dual entry points to encourage social interaction among visitors.
05
Integration of a kitchen space within the main gathering area.

Scape Iceland Movie Pavilion is located in northern Iceland, close to the Grjotagja caves. The building serves as a cultural space dedicated to Icelandic cinema, offering a gathering point for visitors. The design focuses on blending with the natural landscape and creating a connection between the structure and its surroundings.

Architectural Interaction with Landscape

The pavilion respects the unique topography, characterized by mountains and volcanic formations. By raising the structure above the ground, it engages visually with the landscape and creates a clear outline that complements the natural features. This approach minimizes disruption to the existing terrain, allowing the building to enhance the visual experience for those who visit.

Spatial Organization and Visitor Experience

The layout includes two entry points, which promote access for all and encourage social interaction. In the center, there is a gathering space with a closed box that contains a kitchen for food and drinks. This arrangement fosters a communal atmosphere, which is important for a venue focused on cinema and shared experiences.

Interior Design and Thematic Elements

Inside, the cinema hall takes inspiration from cave-like spaces. Visitors descend via four staircases that evoke the feeling of moving through winding natural corridors. The seating arrangement is flexible, moving away from traditional layouts to enhance engagement with Icelandic films. The design connects the interior to the surrounding landscape, enriching the experience.

Spatial and Temporal Considerations

The design also considers the concept of time, reflecting the seasonal changes that occur in the area. The building’s shape relates closely to the natural environment and acknowledges how the rugged landscape softens under snow. This connection gives visitors a sense of place as they experience a venue that tells the story of Iceland’s geology and culture.

Large windows throughout the pavilion frame views of the breathtaking landscape, creating a dynamic relationship between the interior and its surroundings. This design feature invites nature into the space, enriching the experience of those who come to enjoy Icelandic cinema.

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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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