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Stone and Wood Pavilion Embracing Local Culture Through Film

Authors:
Nathan Stewart, Lucas Martins
Stone and Wood Pavilion Embracing Local Culture Through Film
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Crafted from local stone and wood, the pavilion integrates within Iceland's landscape to create a communal space dedicated to film and cultural gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Local stone and wood reflect the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
02
Expansive glass panels dissolve boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Flexible layout accommodates various community events and film screenings.
04
Design integrates traditional rural architectural forms for cultural relevance.
05
Sustainability emphasized through the use of locally sourced materials.

The movie pavilion located in Iceland serves as a cultural center, designed for both local residents and visitors interested in film. Positioned within a unique landscape, the pavilion enhances its surroundings while showcasing a modern architectural approach. The design focuses on simplicity and functionality, creating a welcoming environment that highlights Icelandic culture and craftsmanship.

Architectural Form

The shape of the pavilion mirrors traditional rural buildings found in Iceland, providing a sense of comfort and cultural relevance. This design choice invites the community to engage with the structure. It respects the rich heritage of the region while establishing a space that feels familiar to its users.

Material Selection

The materials used in the pavilion's construction are significant. Wood and stone are the primary components, chosen for their local availability and visual appeal. The use of warm wood introduces a sense of coziness inside the building, contrasting with the cool, rugged stone that reflects the harsh Icelandic landscape. This thoughtful selection not only enhances the aesthetics but also connects the pavilion more closely to its environment.

Spatial Layout

Inside, the pavilion offers a flexible layout that accommodates various activities, such as film screenings and community events. This adaptability allows the space to host everything from small gatherings to larger activities. The design promotes accessibility and encourages all community members to participate, making the pavilion an important cultural resource.

Environmental Integration

Sustainability is an important consideration in the design. The project emphasizes the use of local materials to reduce environmental impact. By doing so, the pavilion fosters a relationship with the natural surroundings. The architecture promotes responsible use of resources while maintaining a strong connection to the landscape.

The pavilion features large glass panels that frame views of the dramatic landscape, letting in natural light. This connection to the outside enhances the overall experience for visitors and reinforces the idea of unity between indoor and outdoor environments.

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

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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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