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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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