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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 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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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