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Transparent Corridor Embracing Nature with Corrugated Glass and Aluminum Design

Author:
Chi fai (ives) Ma
Transparent Corridor Embracing Nature with Corrugated Glass and Aluminum Design

Project in-detail

A transparent corridor constructed with corrugated glass and aluminum amplifies the connection between visitors and the stunning Icelandic landscape while providing engaging spaces for viewing cinema and stargazing.
5 key facts about this project
01
A transparent corridor invites natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
02
The pavilion is located near Grjótagjá caves, enhancing its cultural significance.
03
A dedicated movie theatre celebrates Icelandic cinema and provides unique stargazing opportunities.
04
The use of corrugated glass enhances structural efficiency and visual connection to nature.
05
Aluminum elements in the façade minimize environmental impact while ensuring durability.

The project located at Thingvellir (Pingvellir), a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iceland, enhances the visitor experience through its thoughtful design. Found at a unique geological location where two continental plates meet, the pavilion aims to promote engagement with the surrounding nature while also highlighting the area's cultural importance. Its placement near the Grjótagjá caves, famous for their geothermal springs and ties to Icelandic cinema, adds context and relevance, inviting visitors to explore the landscape and its stories.

Public Engagement
The pavilion encourages public interaction with various carefully planned spaces. A gathering area is designed for dialogue and reflection, complemented by a café bar that allows visitors to enjoy moments of calm amidst their surroundings. Additionally, the movie theatre pays tribute to Icelandic cinema and offers opportunities for stargazing and observing the northern lights. Together, these spaces create a rich cultural framework that connects visitors to both the history and beauty of the region.

Spatial Organization
The layout focuses on easy movement and interaction among visitors. A transparent corridor connects indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for a visual experience of the landscape. This design not only supports shared activities in communal areas but also provides intimate spots for quiet contemplation. It balances social engagement with personal reflection, catering to different visitor needs.

Environmental Integration
A key aspect of the design is its consideration of the environment and sustainable practices. With careful use of glass surfaces, the pavilion invites natural light and provides expansive views, letting visitors appreciate the scenery while maintaining harmony with the landscape. The chosen architectural form reflects the essence of Iceland, enhancing the existing beauty without imposing on it, thereby promoting respect for the ecological environment.

Material Consideration
Key materials are used thoughtfully to align with the overall vision. Corrugated glass is selected for its structural qualities and visual appeal, connecting the building to its setting. Aluminum components are included in the façade for their functional advantages and to enhance the overall design. These selections illustrate a commitment to minimizing ecological impact while ensuring the building’s durability and efficiency.

The design ultimately creates a connection between the built environment and the natural landscape, inviting visitors to appreciate both aspects in a meaningful way.

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

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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

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