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Underground Cinema Crafted from Local Stone and Laminated Wood Embracing Iceland’s Natural Terrain

Author:
Viktoria Petković
Underground Cinema Crafted from Local Stone and Laminated Wood Embracing Iceland’s Natural Terrain

Project in-detail

Crafted with locally sourced stone and laminated wood, the underground cinema seamlessly integrates into Iceland's rugged terrain, offering an immersive viewing experience that connects visitors with the stunning natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cinema is nestled underground, providing a unique intimate viewing experience while minimizing visual impact on the landscape.
02
Locally sourced stone is used in the interior, creating a direct connection to Iceland's geological features.
03
Laminated wood elements offer both aesthetic warmth and structural efficiency, enhancing the pavilion's design.
04
Charred wooden shingles are employed for weather resistance and to create a textured contrast with the natural surroundings.
05
The bent A-frame design not only contributes to aesthetic appeal but also optimizes natural light throughout the space.
The Iceland Movie Pavilion is an architectural project designed to create a unique cinematic experience while maintaining a strong connection to the dramatic landscape of Iceland. This project reflects a thoughtful approach to blending cultural functionality with environmental sensitivity, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in modern architecture.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion serves as a cultural hub, dedicated to showcasing film while fostering community and engagement with nature. Positioned near the Grjótagjá caves, this pavilion offers an immersive environment where visitors can enjoy cinematic experiences in a setting that celebrates Iceland's natural beauty. The design acknowledges the region's geological context by integrating locally sourced materials and forms that echo the surrounding landscape.

The architectural design of the pavilion is characterized by its low-profile structure, which complements the topography of the area. This sensitivity to the landscape is evident in the overall silhouette of the building, which is designed to minimize visual impact while maximizing the connection to the outdoor environment. The main entrance is positioned at ground level, leading directly into an atrium that acts as a heart for the pavilion. This central space allows natural light to flood in, creating an atmosphere of openness and inviting visitors to explore the various functions housed within.

Key features of the pavilion include an underground cinema designed to provide an intimate viewing experience. The cinema's seating wraps around the contours of the space, reflective of the dynamic geological formations typical to Iceland. This thoughtfully crafted environment not only enhances film viewing but also encourages visitors to engage deeply with the surrounding natural elements.

Materials played a crucial role in the development of the pavilion, with a focus on local and sustainable options. Laminated wood has been used for the roofing structure, providing strength while ensuring thermal efficiency. Cedar shingles cover the roof, weathering harmoniously over time. Stone from local quarries is incorporated into the cinema's walls and seating, creating a tactile connection to the geology of the region. The extensive use of glazing throughout the design allows for panoramic views, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces while inviting the breathtaking landscape into the visitor experience.

The spatial organization of the Iceland Movie Pavilion is intentionally designed to facilitate movement and interaction. The layout allows for fluid transitions between a gallery space, café, and rest areas that encourage social connection among visitors. By integrating these communal spaces, the pavilion fosters an environment that brings people together, making it not just a place for viewing films, but a forum for cultural exchange.

A unique aspect of this project is how it prioritizes environmental considerations in its design and operation. The pavilion incorporates geothermal energy and employs passive solar strategies, reflecting a commitment to energy efficiency. This aligns with broader ecological goals and reinforces the role of architecture in addressing contemporary environmental challenges.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion stands as a testament to the harmony that can occur between architecture and nature. Its design thoughtfully engages with the landscape, culture, and community while providing a versatile space for artistic expression. This project exemplifies how architecture can be responsive to its environment while offering functional spaces that enrich the lives of its users. For a deeper understanding and visual representation of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the innovative ideas behind the Iceland Movie Pavilion.
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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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