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Volcanic Stone and Glass Structure Reflecting Iceland's Natural Landscape Through Logarithmic Design

Author:
Junichi Nakajo
Volcanic Stone and Glass Structure Reflecting Iceland's Natural Landscape Through Logarithmic Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from volcanic stone and eco-concrete, the pavilion's logarithmic spiral form integrates seamlessly with Iceland's rugged landscape, serving as a cultural center for cinematic engagement and community gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced volcanic stone, emphasizing regional materiality.
02
The design features a logarithmic spiral, enhancing visitor flow and spatial interaction.
03
Integrates large glass panels to increase natural lighting and connect with the surrounding landscape.
04
Open-air plaza supports outdoor screenings and fosters community engagement.
05
Sustainable eco-concrete used for flooring minimizes environmental impact while ensuring durability.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion is an architectural project that serves as a cultural hub dedicated to Icelandic cinema. Situated in the dynamic and diverse landscape of Iceland, the pavilion integrates natural elements with contemporary design, representing both the country's cinematic narrative and its geographical features. The structure functions as an exhibition space, screening venue, and social gathering area, making it a multi-functional asset for the community.

The overall design is informed by the concept of a caldera—a natural depression formed by volcanic activity—reflecting Iceland's unique geological characteristics. The pavilion uses a logarithmic spiral as its primary spatial organization principle, promoting an organic flow within the building and allowing visitors to navigate seamlessly through various functions.

CINEMATIC INTERACTION WITH NATURE What sets the Iceland Movie Pavilion apart is its distinctive relationship with the environment. The architecture employs locally sourced materials such as volcanic stone and eco-friendly concrete, ensuring minimal environmental impact while providing a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Large glass elements are used to blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, inviting natural light and offering views of the dramatic Icelandic scenery outside. This seamless integration enhances the aesthetic appeal, creating a setting where visitors can experience both art and nature concurrently.

The design prioritizes a multi-sensory experience for users, encouraging deeper engagement with the films and exhibitions hosted within its walls. The open-air plaza serves as a communal gathering space, enabling outdoor screenings and events that foster community involvement. Additionally, the incorporation of a café further enhances social dynamics within the pavilion, making it a welcoming environment.

FUNCTIONAL SPACES WITH CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE The pavilion comprises key functional areas, including a cinema gallery that showcases Icelandic films and photographs, allowing for cultural preservation and exploration. The projection room is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to support various film formats, ensuring high-quality presentations. Spatial components are designed for flexibility, accommodating diverse audience sizes and purposes.

The thoughtful layout encourages movement through the pavilion, with spaces designed for both individual reflection and social interaction. The design prioritizes comfort and accessibility, creating an inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors. The unique spiral shape of the structure not only provides visual interest but also supports efficient circulation patterns, allowing users to engage with the building intuitively.

The Iceland Movie Pavilion stands as a testament to the fusion of architecture and cultural expression. Its design promotes interaction with the environment and celebrates Iceland's cinematic heritage. For those interested in understanding the intricacies of this architectural project further, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design details will provide valuable insights into its comprehensive approach and functional versatility.

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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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