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Circular Viewing Platform With Steel Framework Integrating Natural Landscaping

Author:
Beatriz Ramo lopez de angulo
Circular Viewing Platform With Steel Framework Integrating Natural Landscaping

Project in-detail

A circular viewing platform constructed with a steel framework harmonizes with its surroundings, integrating natural landscaping to create a multifunctional public space that encourages community engagement and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design maximizes panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed palm grove.
02
Steel framework enhances structural integrity while maintaining a light appearance.
03
Landscaping features integrate native plant species for ecological harmony.
04
Multifunctional spaces promote diverse community activities and gatherings.
05
Transparent elements blur boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.

### Project Overview

The Mirador del Palmeral is situated in Elche, Spain, within the context of a historically significant palm grove recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The project emerged from a two-phase architectural competition and emphasizes both contemporary design and cultural relevance. The primary intention is to weave a connection between the city's rich history and the modern urban environment, thereby creating a landmark that integrates seamlessly with existing elements such as the nearby train station, public squares, and pedestrian pathways.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The design adopts the concept of a "wheel," symbolizing dynamic relationships between movement and stillness, as well as the interaction of tradition with modernity. The wheel functions as a viewpoint and a gathering space, fostering social interaction among visitors and locals. Its circular form is intended to create continuity and unity, highlighting an interdependence between natural landscapes and urban life. The Mirador del Palmeral accommodates multiple uses, serving not only as a viewing platform but also as an active square and transit link, encouraging pedestrian engagement and cultural exchange.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Key materials in the construction include steel, glass, concrete, and natural elements, each selected for their functional, aesthetic, and sustainability qualities. The steel framework offers durability while maintaining a lightweight appearance, and glass is integrated to maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the surrounding environment. Concrete serves as a stable foundation, while landscaping elements enhance the atmosphere, promoting ecological diversity. The project prioritizes sustainability by incorporating recyclable materials and designs that will reduce future maintenance impacts, thereby aligning with contemporary environmental objectives.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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