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Charred Wood Pavilion Embracing Volcanic Views

Author:
Meds Studio
Charred Wood Pavilion Embracing Volcanic Views

Project in-detail

Built from charred wood, the pavilion offers a series of thoughtfully designed viewports that frame panoramic vistas of the surrounding volcanic landscape, serving as a space for observation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Located at the summit of a volcano, the pavilion directly engages with the surrounding geological features.
02
The structure incorporates multiple viewports that shape the visitor experience and frame specific landscape views.
03
A requirement for visitors to sit or lie down adds a unique, participatory dimension to the observational experience.
04
The facade is constructed of charred wood, creating a visual and conceptual link to the volcanic environment.
05
Prefabricated lightweight timber modules were used to reduce construction time and enhance sustainability.

The pavilion is located at the summit of a volcano, acting as a space for observation and contemplation. It encourages visitors to engage with both the natural landscape and the geological features surrounding it. The design revolves around a series of viewports and observation platforms, all contained within a single charred mass that reflects the volcanic environment and its history.

Design Concept and Experience

At its core, the pavilion connects visitors with the land. The charred exterior not only ties the structure visually to the volcanic landscape but also serves as a reminder of the natural forces that shaped this area. The various viewpoints built into the pavilion allow guests to explore the terrain in different ways, blending private reflection with shared experiences among groups.

Spatial Arrangement

Entering the ground floor of the pavilion, visitors encounter a sequence of viewports that frame specific features in the distance. Some openings are small and intimate, while others are larger for groups. Very deliberately, visitors are encouraged to sit or lie down to fully experience the views, creating a sense of ritual in the observation process. This arrangement enhances the connection between users and their surroundings.

Material and Construction

Materials play an important role in the pavilion’s function and appearance. Prefabricated lightweight timber modules reduce the time needed for on-site construction, showing a focus on efficiency and sustainability. A combination of solid and panel wooden elements provides structure, while the use of charred wood on the facade creates a link to the volcanic context, both conceptually and visually.

Visually Engaging Elements

The upper level features a viewing platform that grants expansive, unobstructed views. Here, visitors can relax and take in the natural beauty around them, particularly the Aurora Borealis. The space is designed to encourage reflection and appreciation of the landscape. Thoughtful choices in space arrangement and open vistas create an environment that highlights the charm of the surrounding area, fostering a deeper connection between the pavilion and its natural setting.

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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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