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Basalt Fiber Observation Platform Harmonizing With Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Alessandro Pupillo
Basalt Fiber Observation Platform Harmonizing With Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with basalt fiber and integrated into the volcanic landscape, the observation platform offers a sustainable pathway that enhances visitor engagement with the geological history of Nemrut, Turkey.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes basalt fiber for lightweight, high-strength structural support.
02
Integrates raw volcanic rock to enhance the natural aesthetic of the site.
03
Features a 5% sloped pathway to optimize drainage and reduce erosion.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly with the volcanic landscape of Nemrut.
05
Encourages visitor engagement through strategically placed observation points.

## Architectural Analysis Report: Volcanic Observation Platform Project

### Project Overview

Located in Nemrut, Turkey, this observation platform is designed to enhance visitor engagement with the area's striking volcanic landscape and geological history. The project establishes a sustainable pathway connecting the ski lift station to various observation areas, facilitating an immersive experience of the natural environment. By integrating geological elements with human activity, the design reflects both functional and aesthetic considerations.

### Spatial Strategy and Material Selection

The spatial configuration emphasizes the relationship between the volcanic landscape and the constructed environment. A pathway with a 5% slope optimizes drainage and minimizes erosion, while raw volcanic rocks line the concourse, establishing a direct connection to the site’s natural features. The observation platform incorporates a basalt fiber ring that rises from the ridge, framing expansive views of the surrounding terrain. This elevated structure not only provides visual access but is also engineered to withstand local environmental conditions.

Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Basalt fiber serves as the primary structural element, notable for its high strength-to-weight ratio, with properties including a tensile strength of 4.84 GPa and an elastic modulus of 89 GPa. Volcanic rocks are employed for their aesthetic and structural qualities, grounding the design within its geological context. Adhesive resin bonds the basalt fibers, enhancing overall durability and longevity of the structure.

### Visitor Experience and Engagement

The design prioritizes the visitor experience by creating an experiential journey along the pathway that elevates anticipation prior to arriving at the observation platform. This gradual transition allows guests to interact meaningfully with the geological features of the landscape, facilitating a deeper connection to the site’s history. The strategic placement of observation areas encourages exploration and reflection, underscoring the platform's intent to foster engagement with the surrounding natural environment.

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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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