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Elevated Structure with Wood Framework Embracing Nature and Film

Author:
Chinh Vu
Elevated Structure with Wood Framework Embracing Nature and Film
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An elevated structure framed in wood integrates augmented reality features, inviting community interaction with Iceland's stunning landscape while serving as a cultural hub for film.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design provides a panoramic view of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Incorporates augmented reality for an interactive visitor experience.
03
Wood framework minimizes carbon footprint and enhances sustainability.
04
Located near the Grjótagjá caves and Hverfjall volcano, enriching its context.
05
Interior features a gravel pit that serves as a backdrop for atmospheric lighting.

The Twilight Ark sits above the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in Iceland. This unique setting directly influences its design. Serving as a cultural center for film, the structure encourages visitors to explore stories that blend reality and imagination. The design emphasizes harmony with the landscape, while also fostering community involvement in the art of filmmaking.

Architectural Form

The form of the Twilight Ark features an asymmetrical silhouette that resembles the irregular shapes of the surrounding geological features. This thoughtful design allows the building to blend into its environment, enhancing the connection between architecture and nature. Through its elevated design, the structure offers a wide view of the landscape, allowing visitors to feel a sense of openness as they approach.

Interior Layout

Inside, the building is organized into three main areas: an entrance hall, a movie theater, and a lounge. These spaces are designed to receive ample natural light, creating different moods throughout the day. A unique aspect of the design is a pit filled with gravel and atmospheric lighting. This area serves as a backdrop for augmented reality overlays, adding depth to the cinematic experience. Visitors are encouraged to engage actively, stepping into the stories that unfold around them.

Sustainability Focus

Sustainability is a key consideration in the design of the Twilight Ark. The use of a wood framework helps reduce carbon emissions and reinforces the connection to the natural surroundings. This choice shows a commitment to environmental responsibility. The design also includes plans for a demountable structure, which aims to lessen its long-term impact on the landscape, keeping the area close to its natural state.

As visitors arrive along the long wooden pier leading to the Ark, they experience a growing sense of anticipation. This path not only provides access but also prepares them for a journey that intertwines film and the beauty of nature. The design encapsulates a unique experience, inviting everyone to engage with both art and the landscape.

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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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