Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Basalt Fiber Ring Emerges From Volcanic Landscape to Create Sustainable Pathway Experience

Author:
Alessandro Pupillo
Basalt Fiber Ring Emerges From Volcanic Landscape to Create Sustainable Pathway Experience

Project in-detail

Emerging gracefully from the volcanic terrain, a basalt fiber ring beckons visitors into an immersive experience along a sustainable pathway that celebrates Némrut's geological heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes locally sourced volcanic rocks to enhance its connection with the landscape.
02
A lightweight basalt fiber ring serves as a functional and aesthetic focal point for observation.
03
The pathway design incorporates eco-friendly drainage systems to prevent erosion and manage rainwater.
04
Observation platforms provide multiple vantage points, emphasizing the geological narrative of Némrut.
05
The overall structure is carefully integrated into the site’s natural topography to minimize environmental impact.
The architectural project "Rocks Unearth the Layers of History" is a thoughtful exploration of design that harmonizes with its geological and cultural context in Némrut. This location, known for its stunning volcanic landscape, serves as an essential backdrop for the experience that the project aims to create. The design strives to enhance the interaction between visitors and the natural environment, crafting pathways and observation areas that not only provide access but also immerse individuals in the profound history that the landscape encapsulates.

At its core, the project represents a dialogue between the past and present, intricately weaving together the geological heritage of the site with contemporary architectural practices. The pathways guide visitors from a ski lift station to two distinct observation platforms, encouraging a gradual ascent that promotes engagement with the landscape. This movement is intentional, allowing visitors to reflect on the historical significance embedded in the rock formations as they navigate through the terrain.

The central feature of this architectural design is the basalt fiber ring, an innovative element that emerges gracefully from the ridge. This lightweight structure serves as an inviting focal point for visitors to gather, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The ring's design incorporates sloped and cantilevered elements, creating an aesthetic that complements the natural contours of the terrain while serving a functional purpose. Its construction from locally sourced volcanic rocks not only highlights regional materiality but also emphasizes sustainability, ensuring that the project resonates deeply with its environment.

The material choices throughout the project are significant, with raw volcanic rock playing a crucial role in both structural and aesthetic capacities. The use of basalt fiber is particularly noteworthy due to its favorable properties, including high tensile strength and durability. These characteristics allow the design to achieve a lightweight yet robust structure that stands in harmony with its surroundings. The thoughtful selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, aligning with the broader goal of minimizing ecological impact in sensitive landscapes.

The design also incorporates carefully considered drainage solutions, utilizing the natural slope of pathways to facilitate rainwater management and reduce erosion. This approach underscores the project's responsiveness to environmental conditions, showcasing the thoughtful planning that has gone into creating a sustainable visitor experience. Visitors will not only appreciate the beauty of the site but will also gain insights into how thoughtful architectural design can harmonize with natural systems.

The project stands out for its integration of cultural and geological narratives through architecture. By employing modern design techniques while respecting the historical context of Némrut, the project offers a unique experience that invites visitors to engage with the site on multiple levels. It demonstrates that architecture can serve as a bridge between nature and humanity, encouraging exploration and reflection.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and various design ideas can provide valuable insights into the intricacies of the project. The careful attention to detail, innovative material use, and the overall design process are worth examining further for anyone keen on contemporary architecture that respects and enhances its geographical context.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy