Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Geothermal Pavilion With Textured Concrete and Triangular Form Embracing Natural Landscape

Authors:
Zsofia Vancsura, Ádám Balog
Geothermal Pavilion With Textured Concrete and Triangular Form Embracing Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Embracing the rugged Icelandic landscape, a triangular pavilion of textured concrete and large glass panels integrates geothermal energy solutions, creating a versatile space for cinema and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion's triangular form is specifically designed to harmonize with the natural contours of the Icelandic terrain.
02
Large glass panels minimize visual barriers, creating a continuous connection between the interior and surrounding landscape.
03
Geothermal energy systems are integrated to promote sustainability, leveraging Iceland's natural resources for efficient heating.
04
Textured concrete is utilized for both structural and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the building's connection to its geological context.
05
The design encourages community interaction by providing multi-functional spaces that host cinematic events and gatherings.
The Iceland Movie Pavilion is an innovative architectural project located in the unique and dramatic landscape of Iceland. Designed to serve both a functional and cultural purpose, this pavilion represents a thoughtful integration of nature with modern architecture. It stands as a venue for cinema and community gatherings, offering a space where locals and visitors can appreciate Iceland's rich cinematic history while encouraging a deeper connection to the Icelandic landscape.

The structure exhibits a form that is inspired by the natural contours and geological features of the surrounding area, including the volcanic rifts that characterize Iceland’s topography. This connection to the land is essential; the architectural design respects and echoes the rhythms of the natural environment, creating a seamless dialogue between the built form and its setting. Visitors are welcomed into a multi-functional space that includes a cinema, gathering areas, and essential facilities like a cloakroom and kitchen. This careful consideration of function aims to foster communal interactions and cultural enrichment.

A noteworthy aspect of the Iceland Movie Pavilion is its spatial organization. The design employs a triangular configuration that not only harmonizes with the sloped nature of the site but also guides visitors through various experiences. It features a foyer that acts as a transitional zone, blurring the lines between inside and outside. This element of design is pivotal, as it invites engagement with the landscape, encouraging movement and exploration. The main cinema space is thoughtfully positioned to offer an immersive experience while providing ample natural light through large glass panels, which foster a sense of orientation within the surrounding environment.

The choice of materials used in the construction of the pavilion is intentional and reflects a commitment to sustainability. Concrete provides the structural backbone, ensuring durability against the elements, while aluminum framing enhances transparency and lightness through the extensive use of glass. Wood, utilized in the interior, contributes warmth and continuity with Iceland's architectural heritage, reminiscent of traditional turf houses. The green roof, a combination of vegetation and stony textures, is not merely a design aesthetic but serves practical purposes such as insulation and biodiversity enhancement, further aligning the project with environmental considerations inherent to Icelandic culture.

Unique design approaches are central to the project’s identity. The pavilion adopts a minimalistic architectural language while retaining an organic feel. The distinctive diamond-patterned roof structure combines functionality with visual complexity, promoting strength and stability alongside aesthetic appeal. each component of the design is carefully considered to enhance user experience and engagement with both the building and the surrounding landscape. The integration of geothermal and solar energy systems underlines a commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring that the pavilion is aligned with contemporary environmental standards.

Furthermore, the pavilion does more than host events; it acts as a cultural landmark, inviting exploration and education. Through its various spaces, it provides opportunities for community interaction, storytelling, and cultural exchange, allowing visitors to experience the essence of Iceland through film and shared narratives.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is more than a building; it represents a fusion of architecture, culture, and environment, dedicated to promoting Icelandic cinema and community engagement while maintaining a respectful relationship with its stunning natural surroundings. For those interested in exploring the project further, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying architectural ideas, visiting the project presentation would provide deeper insights into this thoughtfully crafted pavilion.
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