Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Geothermal Structure Embracing Natural Ventilation With Louvered Glazing and Timber Cladding

Authors:
Davide Costa, Maurizio Teora
Geothermal Structure Embracing Natural Ventilation With Louvered Glazing and Timber Cladding

Project in-detail

Employing a unique combination of louvered glazing and cross-laminated timber, the design maximizes natural ventilation while seamlessly integrating with Iceland’s geothermal landscape to serve as a multifunctional community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a green roof system that enhances insulation and biodiversity.
02
Incorporates extensive louvered glazing to optimize natural ventilation and light control.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure, creating a dynamic visual profile against the landscape.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for durability and fire resistance while harmonizing with local materials.
05
Features flexible exhibition spaces that adapt to various community events and activities.
The Vessel Pavilion is an architectural project located in Iceland, specifically near Grjótagjá and the Hverfjall Volcano. This pavilion functions as a multifunctional community hub that serves both local residents and visitors, fostering cultural exchange and interaction with the natural landscape. Designed as a connective space, the pavilion incorporates elements of traditional Icelandic architecture while applying modern design strategies and environmental considerations.

A central feature of the Vessel Pavilion is its adaptability for various activities. It includes a cinema or conference hall with a capacity for 50 attendees, a cafeteria designed to encourage social interaction, and flexible exhibition spaces for art displays and cultural events. Accessibility is a key aspect of the design, ensuring that the facility can accommodate all users comfortably.

The unique aspect of this project lies in its geometric form, which mimics the structure of Drakkar oars. This thematic connection to Iceland’s rich maritime heritage offers a narrative element to the architecture. The Pavilion’s slanted green roofs not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also serve practical purposes, acting as natural insulation and integrating the structure into the surrounding environment. The extensive use of timber cladding references traditional building methods, providing warmth and a distinctive character to the overall design.

The building’s façade features large glazing areas and angled louvered designs that facilitate natural light while managing heat gain. This approach promotes energy efficiency and creates a dynamic interplay with the surrounding landscape, changing with the light throughout the day. Additionally, a robust system of rainwater management is in place, channeling runoff towards vegetation areas and supporting sustainability goals.

The Pavilion's design emphasizes natural ventilation, effectively reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. The use of reinforced concrete for structural integrity combined with steel elements allows for a unique spatial layout that supports various functions seamlessly. The architectural plans detail a well-thought-out distribution of space that optimizes usability while maintaining aesthetic integrity.

The Vessel Pavilion stands out as an example of how architecture can harmoniously blend heritage and modernity while addressing environmental challenges. This project emphasizes community connectivity, cultural relevance, and ecological responsibility.

For further insights, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, where you can review architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas pertaining to the Vessel 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 16,979 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