Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Framing Nature With Steel and Concrete in a Cultural Cinema Pavilion

Authors:
Hantao Li, Zhifei Liang
Framing Nature With Steel and Concrete in a Cultural Cinema Pavilion

Project in-detail

Using a steel and concrete framework inspired by the rock formations of Grjótagjá, the pavilion offers framed views of the stunning Icelandic landscape while serving as a cultural center for cinema.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design draws inspiration from the unique rock formations of Grjótagjá.
02
It features a steel frame that allows for column-free open interior spaces.
03
The pavilion includes large openings that frame views of the surrounding landscape.
04
A green roof serves as a rainwater buffer and enhances ecological integration.
05
The layout promotes a seamless flow between public and private areas.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is located in the beautiful landscapes of Iceland and serves as a cultural center for showcasing Icelandic cinema. The design aims to capture the idea of “framing,” reflecting how both architecture and film create experiences for viewers. Its shape and layout connect with the surrounding environment, creating an easy flow between inside and outside.

Conceptual Framework

Inspired by the rock formations of Grjótagjá, the design translates natural shapes into an architecture that blends with the landscape. This connection makes the building feel like a continuation of nature. The entrance features an inwardly pushed wall that draws attention to both the building itself and the striking terrain around it.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the pavilion is divided into different areas for various activities. These include the cinema, viewing seats, gallery, and café. The layout allows for movement from one space to another, enhancing the visitor experience. People can flow from the entrance through the gallery to the viewing point, which encourages social interaction and exploration of the space.

Light and Opening

The use of large openings in the design frames views of the outdoor scenery and allows natural light to come in. This approach not only beautifies the interior but also invites visitors to reflect on both the architectural space and the natural surroundings. The relationship between light and design plays an important role in making the pavilion an engaging and thoughtful place.

Structural Elements

A steel frame supports the building, which enables open spaces without columns. This choice promotes a sense of spaciousness in the pavilion. The foundation, made of concrete, gives stability and strength to the structure overall. The roof includes a skylight that maximizes sunlight exposure and creates interesting patterns of light inside. Additionally, a green roof connects the building further to its landscape while also helping to manage rainwater and promote ecological health.

The thoughtful arrangement of space, light, and nature within the pavilion creates a rich atmosphere, encouraging visitors to enjoy both film and the outdoors.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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