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Reflective Facades and Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Cinema Pavilion

Authors:
Rafał Chmielewski, Marta Utko
Reflective Facades and Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Cinema Pavilion
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The pavilion's reflective facades and integrated green roof create a dialog between nature and film, serving as a versatile cinema space that fosters community engagement and cinematic experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective roof panels create a continuous interplay of light and landscape views.
02
The pavilion's design allows for flexible use as both a cinema and community gathering space.
03
Soundproof curtains enable dynamic transitions between private screenings and public interactions.
04
A circular core houses essential technical rooms, maintaining an unobtrusive visual presence.
05
The green roof integrates sustainable practices while blending into the natural surroundings.

The Iceland Kaleido Scope pavilion is located within the beautiful landscape of Iceland. It is designed as a space focused on film and community interaction. The concept merges architecture with cinema, creating a connection between the building and the surrounding nature. Traditional cinema layouts are reconsidered here, as the central screening area is integrated into an open plan, promoting movement and interaction among visitors.

Conceptual Framework

The design draws inspiration from the features of a camera. The pavilion's facades are crafted to capture and reflect the Icelandic scenery. Reflective roof panels are used to create a kaleidoscopic effect, delivering a unique visual experience. This design allows the pavilion to act as a medium between film and nature, highlighting the relationship between these elements.

Spatial Organization

At the core of the pavilion is the cinema hall. It is framed by soundproof curtains that allow the space to adapt, changing from a private viewing area to an open gathering spot. This flexibility supports different audience sizes and promotes social dynamics. Surrounding the main hall, open public spaces include exhibition areas and informal gathering spots. The layout encourages visitors to move freely and connect with others.

Material Considerations

Material choices play a vital role in the pavilion's performance and appearance. The green roof is designed to withstand Iceland's weather. It includes layers for drainage, waterproofing, and thermal insulation. Corrugated steel filled with cement adds strength to the structure. These materials ensure durability and support the overall design goals while blending with the environment.

Design Detail

The circular core accommodates essential facilities, including technical rooms, a small café, and office spaces. This arrangement maintains operational efficiency while preserving visual coherence. Light and shadow interact with the reflective surfaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that changes throughout the day. Visitors experience cinema in a space that deeply resonates with the distinctive qualities of Icelandic nature.

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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.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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