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Ice-Inspired Structure Featuring Glulam Beams and Aluminum Cladding Serving as Brewery and Café

Ice-Inspired Structure Featuring Glulam Beams and Aluminum Cladding Serving as Brewery and Café
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An angular, ice-inspired form constructed with glulam beams and aluminum cladding creates a multifunctional space that houses a brewery and café, seamlessly integrating into the breathtaking landscape of northeast Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
An ice-inspired design evokes the landscape's geology, integrating seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
02
Glulam beams allow for expansive interior spaces while maintaining structural integrity across varying weather conditions.
03
Aluminum cladding reflects light, mimicking the visual qualities of ice while providing low maintenance.
04
Large glass panels maximize natural light and showcase panoramic views of the Icelandic terrain.
05
The layout fosters a multi-functional environment, combining spaces for brewing, dining, and relaxation.

### Project Overview
Located in northeast Iceland, near the Myvatn area, Falling Icecube integrates with the natural landscape while providing a multifunctional space that includes a brewery, café, and lodging. The intent is to enhance visitor experiences through a connection to the surrounding environment, promoting social interaction and cultural engagement.

### Spatial Dynamics and Functionality
The layout is designed with a clear distinction between public and private areas. The ground floor encompasses the main communal spaces, including the brewery and café, fostering an open and inviting atmosphere. The first floor houses more intimate spaces such as treatment and relaxation rooms, enhanced by panoramic windows that frame expansive views of the landscape. The angular geometry of the building creates a dynamic visual appeal, echoing the theme of ice while maximizing spatial efficiency.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Materials were chosen to reflect the rugged beauty of the Icelandic landscape and to support sustainable practices. Birch timber serves as the primary construction material, offering durability and warmth, while white aluminum cladding provides a low-maintenance exterior that visually resonates with the snowy environment. Strategic use of glass allows natural light penetration, reinforcing the connection between the interior and the exterior landscape. Concrete elements ensure stability and resilience against harsh weather conditions, completing the structure's sustainable profile.

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Pavilion Atlas 2026: Rethinking Nations Through Architectural Storytelling

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Buildner launches Pavilion Atlas 2026, a global architecture competition inviting designers to create conceptual pavilions that tell the story of a country. Participants are challenged to express cultural, social, environmental, or political identity through spatial storytelling, focusing on ideas rather than symbols or technical constraints. The competition offers a total prize fund of €20,000, with final registration open until September 16, 2026, and winners to be announced on December 8, 2026. All submissions will become part of a global design archive.

Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

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