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Wind-Sculpted Cinema with Compacted Earth Walls and a Green Roof

Author:
Justyna Matyska
Wind-Sculpted Cinema with Compacted Earth Walls and a Green Roof

Project in-detail

Constructed with compacted earth walls and topped with a green roof, the cinema is designed to blend seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape while serving as a cultural hub that connects visitors with local myths and natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using compacted earth, enhancing thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a green roof that supports local vegetation and blends into the landscape.
03
Positioned at the intersection of tourist paths and mythical routes, emphasizing cultural connection.
04
Features large glass windows that frame views of the surrounding Icelandic hills.
05
Accessibility measures ensure an inclusive experience for all visitors.

The design is placed in the dramatic landscape of Iceland, known for its rugged mountains and rich cultural stories. Serving as a cinema, the building represents a meeting point where the paths of visitors and local myths come together. Its design concept explores the balance between reality and imagination, drawing from Icelandic folklore that speaks of hidden people and elves. The shape of the building reflects the natural surroundings, creating a strong link to the unique environment.

Contextual Sensitivity

The design carefully considers its backdrop of rocks, caves, and volcanoes. Its form imitates a rock shaped by the wind, establishing a connection with the powerful forces of nature. This approach ensures that the building fits well within the landscape, inviting people to appreciate the beauty of Iceland's natural features.

Functional Organization

The main cinema hall is placed at the symbolic intersection of two paths, emphasizing the idea of cinema as a bridge between the real world and enchanting stories. The layout of the spaces separates public areas, such as the exhibition hall and café, from private ones like offices. This organization helps create varied experiences for everyone who visits the facility.

Material Expression

Sustainable practices are a priority in the choice of materials. Large areas of glass allow for natural light and solar energy collection, reducing the need for electric lighting. The walls are made from compacted earth, which aligns the design with a lower carbon footprint. The use of polycarbonate fiber on the southern side also helps with insulation and energy efficiency.

Ecological Integration

A green roof slopes gently, promoting natural plant growth that enhances the landscape. This feature reduces ecological disruption while maintaining visual harmony with the surroundings. The design includes features that ensure accessibility for all visitors. This commitment to inclusivity reflects the overall approach to creating a welcoming environment.

In the main cinema hall, large windows offer views of nearby hills, strengthening the connection between visitors and the stunning Icelandic landscape. This design choice immerses people in the experience, highlighting both cultural tales and the beauty of nature.

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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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