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Panoramic Views Framed by Turf House Design for Community Gathering

Authors:
Polpipat Naksawat, Teerakan Wattanayon, Ratasakon Chantaluxsul
Panoramic Views Framed by Turf House Design for Community Gathering
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With a roof garden that captures panoramic views and a design inspired by traditional turf houses, the pavilion serves as a community gathering space celebrating Icelandic cinema.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural elements integrate into the design, respecting the existing landscape.
02
The building's roof garden enhances user experience and environmental connection.
03
Turf house design principles are reinterpreted for modern functionality.
04
The theater's strategic orientation maximizes views of the surrounding scenery.
05
Community spaces promote social interaction and cultural engagement.

The Icelandic Movie Pavilion is located in the beautiful landscape of Iceland. It serves as a space dedicated to Icelandic cinema while connecting with the natural surroundings. The design concept emphasizes the importance of merging the building with its environment, highlighting both its function and the cultural significance of film. Visitors engage with the site and experience the rich cinematic history of the region in a thoughtfully designed atmosphere.

Design Concept

The main area of the pavilion functions as a movie theater, positioned to create a clear boundary in the layout. This organization not only enhances the storytelling aspect of the design but also roots the building in its natural context. By following the existing landscape and moving around aged rocks, the design is respectful of the site’s history, ensuring that the structure complements the beauty of its surroundings.

Architectural Style

Influenced by Icelandic turf houses, the design updates this traditional form for use in modern times. The connection to local heritage contributes to the pavilion's character, while contemporary architectural elements improve functionality. The height of the pavilion allows it to capture panoramic views, further engaging visitors with Iceland’s distinct landscape and inviting them to appreciate the scenery.

Community Spaces

Alongside the theater, the building includes a restaurant, bar, and kitchen that support community bonding and social interaction. These areas enhance the experience for visitors and provide gathering places for various activities. The flow of the design helps people move through the pavilion, guiding them through different cinematic experiences while maintaining a strong link to the outdoor environment.

Feature Elements

The pavilion features a roof garden, which includes a staircase, rain drainage systems, and a skylight. These aspects enhance both the look and function of the structure. Modern heating and cooling systems, along with rotating doors, contribute to a smooth transition between the inside and outside. Such thoughtful details reflect a dedication to comfort and environmental sensitivity, enriching the narrative of the Icelandic Movie Pavilion as a place where architecture and nature coexist.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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