Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Prefabricated Steel Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Culture and Landscape

Author:
Ahmed yousuf Ibn kabir khan
Prefabricated Steel Pavilion Embracing Icelandic Culture and Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed from prefabricated steel, the pavilion embodies Icelandic culture and sustainability while providing a community-focused space for cinematic experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with prefabricated steel for durability in harsh climates.
02
The pavilion features a sloped mass, symbolizing Iceland's natural contrasts.
03
A central tree replica in the lobby reflects Icelandic cultural heritage.
04
Winter landscape views are integrated into the design for seasonal engagement.
05
The compact footprint minimizes land use while promoting community interaction.

The design embodies the spirit of Iceland, situated in a landscape defined by unique geological features. Serving as a movie pavilion, it combines elements of culture and practical function. The concept is inspired by the contrasts of ice and fire, expressed through a broad horizontal base and a sloped pavilion mass. This duality reflects the environment while enhancing the visitor experience.

Design Concept

The project features a horizontal base that meets a dynamic pavilion mass. This combination symbolizes the relationship between Iceland's natural elements and emphasizes a clear distinction between different spaces. The larger section houses key facilities, such as a movie theatre and lobby, while the smaller area emphasizes principles of sustainability and cultural representation.

Architectural Layout

The ground floor plan is organized for accessibility and community interaction. Important components include restrooms, a store, and a waiting area. These facilities are arranged to allow smooth movement throughout the pavilion. This layout is designed to foster community engagement, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages visitors to explore and participate.

Materiality and Sustainability

Prefabricated steel is utilized as the main material for construction. This choice leads to low maintenance and allows for quicker assembly in Iceland's remote and rugged locations. The strength of steel ensures the structure will withstand harsh weather conditions, meeting sustainable building standards that focus on environmental care. The compact footprint of the building further supports these goals, efficiently using land while complementing the surrounding landscape.

Climatic Considerations

The pavilion is designed for climatic efficiency. It resists snow and rain while allowing natural light to fill the interior spaces. This thoughtful approach enhances the enjoyment of the northern lights, inviting people to connect with the stunning natural phenomena outside. An important feature in the lobby is a central tree replica, which symbolizes Icelandic culture and serves as a gathering point, encouraging social interactions and creating a unique atmosphere that resonates with the local environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy