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Weathered Steel and Turf Roof Blending Cinema with Iceland's Natural Landscape

Author:
Joseph Tran
Weathered Steel and Turf Roof Blending Cinema with Iceland's Natural Landscape
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A façade of weathered steel and a turf roof create a harmonious connection with the Icelandic landscape while providing a unique underground space for cinematic experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Above-ground turf roof provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Façade constructed from weathered steel enhances durability and aesthetic alignment with nature.
03
Underground spaces promote a unique cinematic atmosphere through natural formwork.
04
Strategic minimal openings control light and create intimate visitor experiences.
05
Integration of native Arctic thymes softens the building’s exterior and supports local ecology.

The Green Cave is located in Iceland and aims to provide a unique space for cinema enthusiasts. The overall design focuses on how the building interacts with the surrounding landscape. With its underground areas, it invites visitors to explore and experience a blend of nature and film. The design uses dark spaces to create a sense of mystery and a connection to the environment.

Integration with Landscape
- Dark underground spaces are designed to reflect the natural terrain. The layout allows for smooth transitions between inside and outside. There are minimal openings in the structure that control light, guiding visitors toward more intimate areas within the building.

Façade and Entry
- A sunken outdoor entry acts as both a functional access point and a welcoming feature. The façade is made from corrugated weathered steel, which blends into the surrounding environment. Native Arctic thymes are used on the exterior, softening the appearance of the steel and enhancing the building's natural aesthetics.

Spatial Configuration
- The interior is organized to encourage interaction among visitors. Important spaces like the lobby and theater are positioned to support easy movement throughout the building. Natural light coming in through the openings creates a varied atmosphere as shadows shift during the day.

Turf Roof and Views
- The turf roof serves multiple purposes, including insulation and a connection to the landscape. Visitors have the opportunity to take in expansive views of the surroundings, including geographical features such as the Hverfjall volcano and nearby caves. This detail fosters a stronger relationship between the building and its natural setting.

The combination of weathered steel and local flora promotes a thoughtful conversation between the building and its site. The architecture respects its geographical context while providing a distinct experience for visitors.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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