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Mythical Narratives in a Geothermal Setting

Authors:
Helena Homsi, Daniel Sorial, Lea Halabi
Mythical Narratives in a Geothermal Setting
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Emerging from the geothermal landscape, the pavilion captures Icelandic mythology through interactive chapters that draw inspiration from the unique Grjótagjá caves, serving as a cultural platform for cinema and storytelling.
5 key facts about this project
01
The pavilion features interactive storytelling through six distinct thematic chapters.
02
It draws architectural inspiration from the Grjótagjá caves in Iceland.
03
A bent A-frame design enhances visual connections with the surrounding landscape.
04
Use of natural materials reflects the local environment and cultural heritage.
05
The structure integrates geothermal elements for energy efficiency.

"Endless Tales" is set in Iceland, where the unique landscape meets the rich tradition of storytelling in cinema. The pavilion aims to immerse visitors in Icelandic narratives and legends. It serves as a platform for exploring the cultural heritage of the land through a series of experiences divided into six thematic chapters. The overall design concept focuses on how stories shape identity and connection to place.

Design Framework

The pavilion is organized to illustrate a journey from disruption to rebirth. Each chapter highlights significant moments in the narrative, guiding visitors through experiences that deepen their understanding of Iceland's cultural context. This structure emphasizes the relationship between architecture and storytelling, creating a thoughtful dialogue with the environment.

Chapter Highlights

The first chapter, "The Disturbance," presents the concept of volcanic eruption as both a source of chaos and a means of creation. The spatial arrangement reflects tension and stability, using forms that evoke the contrasts found in nature.

In "The Myth," visitors encounter elements that embody the folklore of trolls and other mythical beings from Icelandic culture. The design immerses audiences in the atmosphere, enhancing the storytelling with tactile and visual experiences that connect to the land.

"The Void" offers a reflective space, echoing a historical pause in the connection to the lava caves. This part creates an atmosphere suited for contemplation, allowing visitors to connect with the weight of time and memory. Design choices encourage a sense of introspection and personal engagement with history.

"The Show" features a theatre, a movie museum, and an outdoor plaza, providing interactive spaces for audiences to experience moving images. Large openings connect the interior with the surrounding landscape, reinforcing a strong bond between the pavilion and the natural environment.

Throughout the pavilion, architectural elements resonate with the textures and forms of the Grjótagjá caves, creating a dialogue between the inside and outside. The design draws inspiration from the ruggedness of the Icelandic landscape, allowing visitors to fully engage with the stories that shaped the land and its culture.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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