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Mirrored Facades and Reflective Surfaces in a Cinematic Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Geography

Author:
Natalia Piśniak
Mirrored Facades and Reflective Surfaces in a Cinematic Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Geography

Project in-detail

With its mirrored facades reflecting the stunning Icelandic landscape, the pavilion serves as an immersive cinematic space that seamlessly integrates art, nature, and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion employs mirrored surfaces to seamlessly reflect the surrounding Icelandic landscape, enhancing its connection with nature.
02
Distinctive charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and protection against the harsh local climate.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainable construction practices.
04
The design features a bent A-frame structure, allowing for unique spatial experiences and dynamic interior volumes.
05
Strategic placement of glass ensures natural light permeates throughout, creating a fluid interaction between interior and exterior spaces.
The "Upside Down" pavilion is an architectural project located near Lake Mývatn in Iceland, designed to serve as a film and exhibition space that seamlessly integrates with the natural environment. The structure is an exploration of how architecture can reflect and enhance the beauty of its surroundings while providing a unique venue for artistic expression.

Representing a fusion between cinema and nature, the pavilion's primary function is to offer visitors a platform to engage with films in an immersive environment. It emphasizes the interplay between light, reflection, and landscape, encouraging spectators to consider their relationship with both the built elements and the natural world. This relationship is profound in a location as picturesque as Lake Mývatn, where the distinctive geological features and diverse ecosystems become a backdrop for cinematic creativity.

The design of the pavilion features several important elements that collectively contribute to its overall impact. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a foyer characterized by expansive glass entrances that create a seamless transition from outside to inside. The use of glass not only invites natural light but also offers reflective views of the scenic landscape, blurring the line between interior and exterior spaces. This design choice encourages guests to ponder the environment they inhabit while simultaneously preparing them for the sensory experiences that await.

At the heart of the pavilion lies the cinema room, a space dedicated to screening films that invites an experiential journey for audiences. The design of the room incorporates acoustics and projection technology to optimize film presentations while allowing for an intimate viewer experience. Additionally, gallery spaces are interwoven throughout the pavilion, showcasing art that complements the cinematic theme while celebrating Iceland’s rich cultural heritage.

Unique to this project is the intentional use of mirrored surfaces, which are strategically placed to enhance visual interaction with the surrounding landscape. These surfaces create a dynamic environment where visitors can observe themselves amid the natural beauty that envelops them, fostering a sense of connection between the individual and the landscape. The overall structure reflects not only the cinematic influence of its concept but also serves as an artistic statement on the fluidity of perception.

From a material perspective, the pavilion makes use of glass, concrete, natural stone, and materials that imitate water. These choices are deliberate, aimed at achieving sustainability while responding to the local context. The concrete elements are treated to resonate with the surrounding geology, ensuring that the structure integrates with the land rather than imposing upon it. This careful selection of materials underscores the commitment to design that respects the ecological sensitivity of the location.

The architectural approach taken in the "Upside Down" pavilion emphasizes experience over mere form. The layout encourages exploration, with various observational points throughout the structure that invite visitors to appreciate both the filmic and natural elements. The notion of an “upside down” experience not only references the creative inspiration drawn from surreal narrative styles but also serves to challenge conventional perceptions of space, inviting guests to view the world from a fresh perspective.

In conclusion, the "Upside Down" pavilion stands as a thoughtful architectural project that reflects on the relationship between cinema, nature, and human experience. Through its innovative design, material choices, and engagement with the landscape, it offers a unique venue for art that invites both reflection and exploration. Readers interested in delving deeper into the architectural aspects of the pavilion, such as the architectural plans, architectural sections, and the distinct architectural designs, are encouraged to further explore the project presentation to gain a comprehensive understanding of its conception and execution.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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