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Immersive Steel and Glass Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Terrain with Sustainable Timber Elements

Authors:
Sunghyun Kim, Hyosil Yang, Seokhyun Kim
Immersive Steel and Glass Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Terrain with Sustainable Timber Elements

Project in-detail

Crafted from steel and glass, the pavilion seamlessly integrates with Iceland's rugged landscape, providing an immersive space that connects visitors to the rich cinematic heritage of the region.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion features a bent A-frame design that maximizes structural integrity while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their sustainability, reducing carbon footprint while enhancing aesthetic warmth.
03
Charred wooden shingles are integrated into the facade, offering weather resistance and a unique texture that complements the natural environment.
04
Expansive glass facades provide unobstructed views of Iceland's topography, seamlessly blending the interior experience with the exterior landscape.
05
The layout encourages visitor interaction by creating fluid transitions between cinematic experiences and educational exhibitions on Icelandic culture.
The Iceland Movie Pavilion is an architectural endeavor that exemplifies a thoughtful integration of film and the natural beauty of Iceland. This project serves as a unique hub for experiencing Icelandic cinema while simultaneously engaging with the stunning landscapes that characterize the region. The pavilion is designed not merely as a structure for viewing films but as an immersive space that enhances the connection between art and nature.

At its core, the Iceland Movie Pavilion represents a celebration of Icelandic culture and geography. The architectural design seeks to encapsulate the essence of Iceland through its materials, layout, and structural form. By bridging the cinematic experience with the surrounding landscape, the pavilion becomes a canvas that reflects the narrative of Icelandic cinema, allowing visitors to explore the stories and cultural heritage of the region while being surrounded by the raw beauty of its environment.

Functionally, the pavilion houses several key areas that cater to a multitude of purposes. A primary element is the theater, where audience members can enjoy films while experiencing a direct connection to the landscape through extensive glazing. This design choice allows natural light to filter into the space, creating an atmosphere where the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors are fluid. The arrangement of seating within the theater reflects the contours of the terrain, providing an engaging and communal setting for viewers.

Adjacent to the theater is the exhibition hall, which showcases various aspects of Icelandic cinema, including film history and cultural context. This space is designed to educate and inspire visitors about local film productions and their impact. Furthermore, the pavilion incorporates a library and archive, serving as a resource for those interested in exploring the broader cultural and geographical narratives. A bar area provides a social space that connects visitors further, allowing them to reflect on their experiences within the pavilion and with the surrounding environment.

The architectural design of the pavilion employs materials that resonate with the Icelandic landscape. Steel serves as a fundamental component, providing structural strength while permitting the creation of expansive spaces. The use of wood for the interior walls and ceilings introduces warmth and texture, enhancing the sensory experience within the pavilion. Glass facades are also integral to the design, blurring the lines between inside and outside and ensuring that the breathtaking views of the landscape remain a focal point for occupants.

One of the unique design approaches of the Iceland Movie Pavilion is its organic form, which mimics the natural topography of the surrounding area. By rising from the terrain, the structure seems to emerge from the ground itself, emphasizing the relationship between the pavilion and its environment. This design strategy not only enhances the visitor experience but also reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability and environmental sensitivity.

The project’s attention to detail is evident in its commitment to creating spaces that foster interaction and community engagement. The layout encourages exploration, inviting visitors to wander between spaces and discover the various elements of Icelandic cinema and culture. The design effectively marries functionality with artistic expression, creating a venue that is both informative and enjoyable.

In considering the architectural ideas behind the Iceland Movie Pavilion, one can appreciate how the project redefines traditional notions of a cinema space. It serves as a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of Iceland, blending the realms of architecture, film, and nature harmoniously. This design invites deeper engagement with the environment and the cultural narratives it houses, challenging visitors to reflect on their own experiences within the context of Icelandic heritage.

For those who wish to explore the nuances of the Iceland Movie Pavilion further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed designs can provide valuable insights. Engaging with the project presentation will offer a deeper understanding of the design outcomes and the thoughtful considerations that went into creating this unique architectural experience.
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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
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