Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Facade Enhances Vertical Observation Tower Within a Natural Landscape

Author:
Rayan Albarghathi
Charred Wooden Facade Enhances Vertical Observation Tower Within a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Elevated by a slatted wooden facade and designed for accessibility, the tower integrates sustainable materials to offer an immersive observational experience in its natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that promote structural stability.
03
Incorporates a ramped circulation path to ensure full accessibility.
04
The vertical design maximizes panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Includes multiple observation levels for diverse visitor experiences.

### Project Overview
An observational tower has been designed to enhance engagement with the surrounding landscape, strategically positioned to provide sweeping panoramic views. The primary intent of the structure is to foster a unique visitor experience that emphasizes the relationship between architecture and the natural environment. Standing at 15 meters, the tower features a design that prioritizes stability and simplicity, creating an immersive atmosphere that encourages exploration.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The project utilizes wood as a primary material, selected for its sustainability and availability in the local context. This choice aligns with a commitment to reducing environmental impact while contributing aesthetic value. Additionally, concrete is employed for structural supports, while glass is incorporated to maximize transparency and natural light. These materials not only enhance the visual warmth of the tower but also facilitate passive temperature regulation through the strategic use of shading elements.

### Spatial Configuration
Access to the tower is through a central lobby that provides a welcoming entrance and connects to various observation decks. The design employs ramps to facilitate accessibility, promoting a comfortable circulation experience as visitors ascend through different levels. Each observational platform offers distinct viewpoints that frame the surrounding landscape, encouraging interaction with nature. This thoughtful spatial strategy incorporates terraces and viewing areas that support community engagement and inclusivity, inviting diverse user groups to appreciate the outdoor environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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