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Fluid Etfe Canopy Overlooks Volcanic Landscape in Sustainable Community Pavilion

Authors:
Tatyana Serdyukova, Daria Bessonova, Daria Parvatkina, Oksana Kikina
Fluid Etfe Canopy Overlooks Volcanic Landscape in Sustainable Community Pavilion
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With a fluid ETFE canopy that captures natural light and provides expansive views of Iceland's volcanic landscape, the pavilion serves as a multifunctional space for educational programs and community engagement centered around coffee culture.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion employs a lightweight ETFE membrane that enhances thermal efficiency while allowing natural light to permeate the space.
02
A unique bent A-frame design maximizes structural stability and creates an open, airy interior.
03
Construction incorporates monolithic reinforced concrete for durability, suited to Iceland's harsh climate.
04
Interactive exhibits educate visitors on coffee production, integrating cultural engagement with architectural space.
05
Strategically positioned windows provide panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, enhancing the visitor experience.

The "Rain Drop" Pavilion is an architectural project located at the base of Hverfjall volcano, near Lake Mývatn in Iceland. This structure serves as both a functional space and an attraction for visitors, designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Its purpose is to provide educational and cultural experiences related to coffee production and offer a gathering space for tourists and locals alike.

The pavilion features a dynamic and fluid roof design that mimics the form of raindrops, enhancing its connection to the natural environment. This unique roof not only draws the eye but also contributes to a sense of openness and connection with the landscape. Constructed with a monolithic reinforced concrete foundation and a lightweight ETFE shell, the design prioritizes sustainability. The ETFE material allows for natural light while maintaining thermal efficiency, promoting an environment that is both inviting and energy-efficient.

One significant aspect of the "Rain Drop" Pavilion is its multifunctionality. The interior layout includes an amphitheater-style seating arrangement around a central coffee area. This encourages community interaction while educating visitors about local coffee culture. The pavilion’s design supports a range of activities, from workshops and talks to relaxation areas, making it adaptable to various events and functions. Such flexibility distinguishes this project from many similar structures, which often serve a singular purpose.

In addition to its practical uses, the pavilion engages visitors with its setting, enhancing the overall tourist experience in the Icelandic landscape. The careful selection of materials, combined with innovative architectural forms, allows the pavilion to withstand the region’s climatic challenges while responding to the need for sustainable design. This project fosters a dialogue between architecture, nature, and culture, positioning it as an exemplary model for future architectural endeavors in ecologically sensitive areas.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that make the "Rain Drop" Pavilion distinctive, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This detailed review will offer a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas that underpin the project and its innovative approach to integrating culture and environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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