Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Floating Structure With Reflective Surfaces and Zinc Cladding For Community Cinema

Authors:
Louis Pouchard, Anindya Citra
Floating Structure With Reflective Surfaces and Zinc Cladding For Community Cinema

Project in-detail

With its floating form and reflective surfaces crafted from zinc and bronze, this community space enhances the Icelandic landscape while providing a dedicated venue for film and cultural gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion features a unique floating design that enhances visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
Reflective mirror walls create an illusion of expanded space while integrating the interior with the exterior environment.
03
Zinc cladding not only protects against Iceland's harsh weather but also harmonizes with local topography.
04
Súkkan Pit serves as a dynamic sunken gathering area, fostering informal social interactions among visitors.
05
The project incorporates sustainable material practices, using locally sourced stone and durable finishes to minimize environmental impact.
The Iceland Movie Pavilion stands as a thoughtful architectural project that embodies the essence of its location, the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in Iceland. This facility serves multiple functions, including a space for cinematic experiences, cultural events, and community gatherings. Designed to merge seamlessly with its breathtaking natural surroundings, the pavilion reflects a commitment to sustainability and local culture while providing a unique space for public engagement.

At its core, the Iceland Movie Pavilion represents a dialogue between the built environment and the rugged landscape. Its form is intentionally designed to appear as if it is floating above the ground. This enhances the visual connection to the surrounding terrain while inviting visitors to experience the beauty of Iceland's wildness. The architectural design aims to foster contemplation, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural world while enjoying cinematic art.

The pavilion houses several important functional areas, including a reception area that serves as the initial point of contact for visitors. This space offers information, setting a welcoming tone for all who enter. Beyond the reception lies the Súkkan Pit, a sunken gathering area that encourages informal interactions among visitors. This unique design element emphasizes community connection, providing a cozy space for socializing, including around a fire pit.

A significant feature of the architectural layout is the main theater, which accommodates 50 seats and is specifically designed for film screenings. Equipped with advanced audiovisual technology, it provides an intimate and high-quality cinematic experience. The pavilion also includes a dedicated gallery and exhibition space. This flexible area highlights local artists and filmmakers, promoting cultural engagement within the community. Throughout the pavilion, storage and utility spaces are meticulously planned to maintain operational efficiency without disrupting the overall aesthetic appeal.

The materiality of the Iceland Movie Pavilion plays a crucial role in its design. The architects selected materials that resonate with the local environment while ensuring durability against the extreme Icelandic climate. A zinc covering offers rain protection and blends harmoniously with the natural tones of the landscape. The bronze ceiling adds a touch of sophistication, enhancing the interior ambiance through the interplay of natural light. Mirror walls are utilized within the pavilion to create an illusion of expansive space while simultaneously reflecting the exterior environment. This design choice fosters a sense of continuity between the inside and outside, encouraging visitors to appreciate the surrounding beauty.

Stone pavers are used for the ground surface, seamlessly connecting the facility to the terrain and providing accessibility for all visitors. The choice of materials is intentional, aiming to enhance the pavilion's sustainability by minimizing disruption to the environment, while honoring the architectural legacy of the region.

A uniquely striking aspect of the pavilion lies in its design philosophy that prioritizes user experience. The architecture encourages seamless flow and interaction, making it easy for visitors to transition from one space to another. This design approach not only fulfills functional requirements but also promotes a sense of community and shared experience within the pavilion.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion serves as a vital cultural hub, enriching the local community while respecting its surroundings. Through its thoughtful design and material choices, the project is a testament to the potential of architecture to reflect and engage with its environment. For those seeking to delve deeper into the intricacies of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and various architectural ideas, further exploration of this project presentation is encouraged. Engaging with these details can provide valuable insights into the project's architectural significance and its contributions to the Icelandic cultural landscape.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy