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Cantilevered Viewing Platform Crafted From Reinforced Concrete and Metal Mesh Immersed in Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Yiyao Wang
Cantilevered Viewing Platform Crafted From Reinforced Concrete and Metal Mesh Immersed in Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Cantilevered over a caldera, the reinforced concrete structure integrates a metal mesh staircase and observation decks to provide visitors with a unique exploration of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered design extends over the caldera, providing dramatic views.
02
Reinforced concrete structure withstands extreme weather conditions.
03
Metal mesh staircases offer transparency while ensuring safety.
04
Integration with volcanic landscape enhances visitor experience.
05
Asymmetrical shapes create unique spatial dynamics throughout.
The architectural project in focus is an innovative structure designed within a dramatic winter landscape characterized by volcanic features. The primary function of this design is to provide a viewing platform for visitors, allowing them to engage fully with the surrounding natural beauty while exploring the geological formations of the area.

The project is defined by its integration with the environment, facilitating an experience that enhances visitors' connection to both architecture and nature. The structure employs reinforced concrete as its primary material, providing durability and a sense of permanence. This material choice serves to strengthen the relationship between the built form and the natural terrain, allowing the architecture to complement rather than dominate its surroundings.

The design incorporates a series of branching staircases and observation platforms that guide visitors through an engaging journey. These spaces are meticulously crafted to maintain visual connections with the landscape, inviting exploration and reflection. The cantilevered viewing platform is a focal point, extending over the caldera and allowing an unobstructed view of the area below. This feature emphasizes the architectural intent to immerse visitors in their environment while ensuring safety and structural integrity.

Unique Design Approaches

One notable aspect of this project is the innovative staircase design. The twisting and turning pathways challenge conventional stair configurations, creating an experiential quality as visitors navigate through varying levels. This approach promotes exploration and encourages visitors to engage with the spaces around them, fostering a sense of curiosity.

Additionally, the use of metal mesh within the stair railings balances aesthetics and safety, ensuring that the visual experience is unhindered while maintaining structural functionality. The interplay between materials, such as the cold surfaces of the concrete and the warmth of the visitors' experiences, captures the essence of the site’s natural climatic conditions.

Architectural Integration with Landscape

The architectural layout is carefully aligned with the topography of the caldera, ensuring that the project feels as if it is an organic extension of the landscape. The strategic siting enhances the structure's relationship with the surrounding geological features, reinforcing the objective of harmonization between built and natural environments. By prioritizing site integration, the design abstracts and interprets the local context while providing users with unique vantage points to appreciate the landscape.

This project exemplifies the marriage of form, function, and environment, positioning itself as a significant architectural endeavor. To gain deeper insights into the underlying concepts and technical details, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with this project. Such a review will offer a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas driving this noteworthy design.
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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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