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Harmonizing Augmented Reality With Thermal Timber and Panoramic Vistas in a Nordic Pavilion

Author:
Chinh Vu
Harmonizing Augmented Reality With Thermal Timber and Panoramic Vistas in a Nordic Pavilion

Project in-detail

Integrating augmented reality with sustainably sourced thermal timber, this pavilion offers panoramic views of Iceland's landscape while serving as an immersive cinematic venue.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thermal timber sourced from local forests for enhanced sustainability.
02
Features modular ground screws for an adaptable foundation with minimal environmental disruption.
03
Incorporates augmented reality technology to enrich the cinematic viewing experience.
04
Designed with panoramic glazing to maximize natural light and landscape visibility.
05
Reflects regional geology through artificial rock panels that blend with the natural environment.

The Twilight Ark is an architectural project located near the Gígjaldág Caves in Iceland, designed to serve as a movie pavilion. The structure harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, showcasing a modern architectural approach while reflecting the region’s geological characteristics. The project encapsulates the essence of Icelandic folklore, integrating natural beauty with cinematic experiences.

The main function of the Twilight Ark is to provide a distinct venue for cinematic presentations, incorporating advanced technology and a thoughtful design that promotes audience engagement. The pavilion enhances visitors' interaction with film through augmented reality features, creating an immersive environment that connects storytelling with the stunning Icelandic scenery.

Spatially, the design includes several key components. The entrance hall serves as a multi-purpose area, welcoming visitors and introducing them to the cinematic themes explored within the pavilion. The central movie theater incorporates advanced acoustic and visual technology, creating an environment conducive to high-quality film presentations. A sky lounge located on the upper level offers panoramic views of the landscape, allowing visitors to experience both the interior comforts and the inspiring exterior vistas. Additional augmented reality zones provide designated spaces for interaction, enabling a more dynamic engagement with the films.

The uniqueness of the Twilight Ark is evident in its design strategies. One of the notable aspects is the integration of local materials, such as thermo wood and artificial rock panels, which reflect the prevailing environment while ensuring structural integrity. The use of aluminum framing supports expansive glass windows, allowing natural light to permeate the interior and enhancing the connection to the outdoors. Additionally, the modular ground screws utilized for foundation construction reduce environmental impact, ensuring the project's adaptability to the evolving landscape.

Overall, the Twilight Ark sets itself apart from other architectural designs by combining state-of-the-art technology with sustainable practices and a deep respect for the natural surroundings. The pavilion embodies architectural ideas that redefine cinematic spaces, fostering a genuine relationship between culture and the environment. For a more comprehensive understanding of the architect's vision, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation, including architectural plans and sections to delve deeper into the design elements.

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

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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

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