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Soft Forms and Transparent Facades Emphasizing Volcanic Landscape Through Natural Materials

Author:
Hui Guo
Soft Forms and Transparent Facades Emphasizing Volcanic Landscape Through Natural Materials

Project in-detail

Blending an elegant circular form with extensive glass facades and textured stone, the facility enhances its volcanic surroundings while providing a multifunctional venue for cinematic experiences and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a circular footprint to harmonize with the natural site contours.
02
Features extensive glass facades to enhance visual connectivity with the landscape.
03
Incorporates textured stone elements reflecting local geological characteristics.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to create dynamic spatial experiences.
05
Integrates flexible multi-functional spaces to accommodate various community events.
The Iceland Movie Pavilion is an architectural project designed to harmoniously integrate with the rugged landscapes of Iceland. This pavilion serves as both a cinematic venue and a community space, offering a unique environment that encourages interaction between visitors and the surrounding nature. The design emphasizes a fluid relationship between the interior and exterior, promoting a seamless experience as patrons engage with both film and the natural setting.

The pavilion features a circular architectural form, which aids in establishing a connection to the topography while ensuring optimal views of the surrounding landscape. Large glass facades allow for natural light to penetrate the interior, thereby enhancing the ambience and offering panoramic vistas of the Icelandic scenery. The structure employs a minimalistic aesthetic, reinforcing its relationship with the environment and reducing visual impact.

Unique Site Integration and Materiality

The Iceland Movie Pavilion distinguishes itself through its site-sensitive design and material selection. By utilizing a circular footprint, the pavilion responds to the natural contours of the land, creating pathways that encourage exploration. The integration of expansive glass panels not only fosters transparency but also invites the natural world inside, blurring the lines between built and natural environments.

Material choice is another defining feature of the project. The pavilion utilizes a mix of glass, textured stone, wood, and polished concrete. Glass serves to connect the indoor spaces with external views while maintaining a sense of openness. The stone elements ground the structure, reflecting the geological characteristics of Iceland. Wood used for interior finishes introduces warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere, while concrete provides durability essential for the Icelandic climate.

Functional Layout and Multidimensional Spaces

The layout of the pavilion encompasses various functional areas, including an entrance and reception area, multi-purpose spaces for events and screenings, and a café. These elements are interconnected through a series of corridors and open spaces that promote circulation and interaction among visitors. Central to the interior is an atrium that serves as a light well, enhancing the overall environment and creating a dynamic spatial experience.

The design also incorporates a bridge linking different sections of the pavilion, further enhancing connectivity. The flexible multi-purpose spaces allow for various functions, from film screenings to exhibitions, catering to diverse community needs. This adaptability ensures that the pavilion can evolve with the demands of its users while maintaining a focus on engagement and experience.

For those interested in understanding the design and execution of the Iceland Movie Pavilion further, a review of architectural plans, sections, and details is encouraged. These documents provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this project and illustrate the specific design approaches utilized to create a harmonious interplay between architecture and landscape.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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