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Kinetic Glass Chasm with Grass Roof in Northern Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Pu Vallin
Kinetic Glass Chasm with Grass Roof in Northern Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

A kinetic glass chasm, embedded within a grass-roofed structure reflecting the rift between tectonic plates, serves as a dynamic venue for celebrating Icelandic cinema while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Kinetic design allows the pavilion to adapt its form for varying events.
02
The glass chasm provides unobstructed views of the night sky.
03
A grass roof enhances insulation and blends with the natural landscape.
04
The structure is aligned with the tectonic rift, emphasizing geological connections.
05
Circulation pathways connect directly to nearby geothermal caves.

The Skipta Movie Pavilion is located in Northern Iceland, next to Grótagjá, an area known for its geothermal hot springs and fascinating geological features created by the rift between the American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The pavilion celebrates Icelandic cinema and is designed to connect with its natural surroundings. Its concept is based on the movements of tectonic plates, resulting in a structure that can adapt to different functions and environmental conditions.

Functionality and Flexibility

The design allows the Skipta Movie Pavilion to operate in three different states: neutral, convergent, and divergent. The western section of the building, meant for cinema, has a movable structure that can change shape. In its neutral state, the pavilion serves as a protected area with storage and space for small gatherings. When it is in the convergent state, it provides a more intimate setting that shields users from the weather while keeping a connection to the outside. The divergent state opens a glass chasm, which offers visitors stunning views of the sky.

Spatial Dynamics

The chasm is the main circulation route within the pavilion, connecting it to a larger circular pathway that leads back to the Grótagjá caves. This design supports easy movement between the pavilion and its natural surroundings. The layout encourages a smooth transition from indoor spaces to the outdoors, promoting engagement with the landscape and inviting exploration.

Materiality and Form

The materials used in the pavilion, including glass-reinforced concrete, wood, and glass, reflect traditional Icelandic building techniques while also introducing modern elements. The right side of the structure has a grass roof that insulates the building and protects it from harsh weather conditions. The overall shape of the pavilion follows the region’s hilly landscape, mimicking the natural movements of the tectonic plates and fostering a strong connection with its site.

Aesthetic Integration

Positioned on the Eurasian plate and aligned with the tectonic rift, the pavilion offers clear views of the mountains to the north and south. This location enhances the relationship between the building and its dramatic environment. By thoughtfully combining architectural form with the landscape, the design creates a functional space that is also visually appealing. The responsive features of the pavilion highlight its connection to natural light and the surrounding scenery, resulting in a dynamic place that changes with its environment.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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