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Corten Steel Footbridge and Reclaimed Timber Observation Point Amidst Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Misak Terzibasiyan, Athanasia Kalaitzidou
Corten Steel Footbridge and Reclaimed Timber Observation Point Amidst Volcanic Landscape
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A footbridge constructed from Corten steel leads visitors through a journey of reclaimed timber toward an observation point that offers panoramic views of the Nemrut Volcano and its surrounding landscape, integrating education and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with reclaimed timber sourced from local structures to enhance environmental sustainability.
02
Incorporates a Corten steel footbridge that naturally weathers, blending with the volcanic landscape.
03
Features segmented pathways that provide a diverse range of perspectives as visitors approach the observation point.
04
Integrates informational displays along the route, educating visitors on the area's geological and cultural significance.
05
The design emphasizes a dark-to-light transition to build anticipation before revealing scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

### Conceptual Overview

Located in Eastern Turkey, the observation point at Nemrut Volcano has been designed to offer visitors an immersive experience that combines natural beauty with cultural significance. The site, named after King Nimrod, serves as a key attraction for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in the region’s historical narratives. The design emphasizes accessibility and the visitor journey, intending to enhance emotional connections with the surrounding landscape and the archaeological relevance of the area.

### Design Elements and Materiality

**Observation Point and Footbridge**: The Observation Point draws inspiration from traditional Turkish architecture, featuring a structure that utilizes reclaimed timber, local volcanic rock, and Corten steel. Reclaimed timber from nearby sources gives the observation deck a distinctive, organic feel. Corten steel is employed in the footbridge, where its weathered appearance aligns with the landscape's natural textures while ensuring resilience. The footbridge is designed with segmented sections, providing varying perspectives and opportunities for learning about the volcano's geology and history, with geometric forms that reflect the local terrain.

**Welcoming Pavilion**: Designed to cater to visitor needs, the welcoming pavilion incorporates functional elements such as restrooms and first aid facilities while maintaining a connection with the landscape. Its extensive overhanging roofs provide shelter, and glass openings allow natural light to filter through, enhancing the sense of being connected to the outdoors.

### Visitor Journey and Experience

The experience begins with a journey through the welcoming pavilion, leading to the footbridge that gradually ascends toward the observation point. The design employs a dark-to-light transition to build anticipation as visitors approach panoramic views of significant landmarks, including Lake Van and the valleys surrounding the Bitlis River. At the Observation Point, visitors are surrounded by textured wooden walls that interact with light and shadow, reinforcing the communion between the interior space and the natural environment outside. This approach not only enhances the visual experience but also engages users in a multi-sensory exploration of the site.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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