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Ahlat Stone Viewing Platforms Crafted From Reinforced Concrete Overlooking Expansive Landscapes

Authors:
Kesra Mansuri, Inana Abdulli
Ahlat Stone Viewing Platforms Crafted From Reinforced Concrete Overlooking Expansive Landscapes

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced Ahlat stone and reinforced concrete, the carefully integrated viewing platforms provide an immersive experience that connects visitors to the geological and cultural richness of the Nemrut landscape while serving as an observatory and educational space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observatory’s design seamlessly blends into the natural contours of the Nemrut landscape.
02
Locally sourced Ahlat stone is used extensively to reflect regional geological characteristics.
03
Reinforced concrete allows for cantilevered platforms that enhance the visitor experience with expansive views.
04
Integrated educational display cases provide visitors with narratives of the area's cultural history.
05
The structure's pathway is thoughtfully designed to transition between intimate spaces and panoramic vistas, encouraging exploration.
The project “Rupture” represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor that seeks to harmonize the built environment with the spectacular natural landscape of the Nemrut Volcano in eastern Turkey. This structure is not merely an addition to the site; it is designed to serve multiple functions as both an observatory and a cultural museum. By doing so, it aims to enhance the visitor experience while fostering a deeper connection between people and the environment.

At its core, the architecture embodies the idea of a journey. Visitors enter through a slender passage that gradually widens, symbolizing the transition from the constraints of the narrow path into a breathtaking vista at the summit. This deliberate ebb and flow of space encourages exploration and reflection, allowing visitors to appreciate both the majestic geological features of the site and the historical narratives woven into the design. The architecture is influenced by the surrounding landscape, integrating it into the experience rather than separating people from it.

The functionality of the “Rupture” project is anchored in its dual role as an observatory and an educational space. The design includes multiple viewing platforms, strategically positioned to offer unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, specifically highlighting the unique topographical features of the Nemrut Volcano and its lake. These platforms create focal points for visitors, inviting them to pause and engage with the environment, as well as reflect on the cultural significance of the area.

Moreover, the project features areas for displaying artifacts and narratives representing local history and mythology. These educational display cases are incorporated into the flow of the design, allowing for a seamless integration of learning with exploration. Visitors are encouraged to interact with these elements as they navigate through the architectural space, thereby enhancing their understanding of the site’s heritage.

In terms of design, “Rupture” adopts a unique approach to materiality and structural form. The architecture primarily employs locally sourced Ahlat stone, which not only resonates with the geological context but also emphasizes sustainability by minimizing transportation impacts. Reinforced concrete is used for structural elements, providing durability and allowing for innovative forms that complement the overall design concept. The use of glass railings plays a crucial role in maintaining unobstructed views while adding a contemporary touch to the built form. The tactile warmth of treated timber used in the stair treads further enhances the user experience, creating a balance between modernity and nature.

A distinctive aspect of this project is its emphasis on spatial dynamics. The variation in ceiling heights, narrow paths leading to expansive areas, and the careful choreography of movement throughout the structure all work together to create a compelling narrative for visitors. The architecture invites users to explore not merely the physical space but also their relationship with nature, the narratives of the land, and the architectural form itself. This interaction is facilitated through a thoughtful sequencing of spaces, allowing for moments of intimacy, surprise, and contemplation.

Overall, “Rupture” exemplifies a sensitive approach to architecture that respects and elevates its surroundings while providing valuable educational opportunities. The design invites all who engage with it to not only view the significant geological features of the Nemrut area but to reflect on the cultural stories they represent. For those interested in exploring this architecture further, examining elements such as architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a deeper understanding of the thoughtful ideas that have informed this project. Visitors and architectural enthusiasts alike will find value in delving into the specifics of the design and its architectural narrative, appreciating how it connects people to the profound landscapes of eastern Turkey.
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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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