Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Corten Steel Pathway Emphasizing Geological Features Through Thoughtful Material Integration

Authors:
Lara Jean-louis, Chloé Anouilh
Corten Steel Pathway Emphasizing Geological Features Through Thoughtful Material Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing corten steel and sustainable materials, the pathway weaves through the region’s geological marvels, enhancing visitor engagement while ensuring environmental preservation and safe access to natural wonders.
5 key facts about this project
01
The corten steel pathway develops a protective patina that blends with the surrounding landscape over time.
02
Educational nodes along the path provide detailed geological insights specific to the area's unique formations.
03
Viewing platforms are strategically placed to ensure minimal environmental impact while maximizing visitor experience.
04
The design incorporates passive visitor management to prevent overcrowding at sensitive geological points.
05
A modular approach allows for flexibility in response to visitor flow and environmental conditions.
The architectural project known as The Pathway exemplifies a thoughtful integration of human interaction with the natural environment, designed to enhance tourism while preserving the delicate geological features of the site. Nestled near a significant seismic fault line, the project focuses on connecting two remarkable geological points of interest, specifically the Karigalj and Kvennagj caves. Through this connection, The Pathway aims to provide visitors with a safe and structured means to engage with the area's unique geological formations without causing excessive environmental disruption.

At its core, The Pathway represents more than just a physical route; it embodies a commitment to educational tourism and environmental stewardship. The design facilitates an immersive experience that allows visitors to appreciate the geological significance of the area while fostering a sense of responsibility towards its preservation. By engaging nature thoughtfully, The Pathway promotes awareness about geological phenomena and encourages sustainable interaction with the environment.

The project intricately designs a looped pathway that guides visitors seamlessly from one geological landmark to another. This arrangement not only enhances visitor flow but also curates the experience, ensuring that guests encounter various viewpoints without detracting from the surroundings. The design integrates several functional components, including informational nodes that educate visitors about the geological features they will encounter, as well as strategically placed viewing platforms that provide safe access to breathtaking viewpoints. Each element is carefully positioned to maximize exposure to the sites’ natural beauty while preventing crowding in sensitive areas.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall design of The Pathway. Key materials such as corten steel, wooden decking, and reinforced concrete have been thoughtfully selected. Corten steel is used due to its weather-resistant properties and ability to develop a protective patina that blends aesthetically with the landscape over time. The inclusion of wood in the decking presents a warm, inviting surface that contrasts with the more rugged geological elements, enhancing visitor comfort and experience. Reinforced concrete serves as the backbone for the pathway and platforms, ensuring structural integrity while withstanding the natural forces present in an active geological region.

A unique aspect of this project is its commitment to sustainability. The design limits environmental impact by preserving natural ecosystems and constructing a route that minimizes disruption. The architecture thoughtfully incorporates passive visitor management techniques, effectively channeling foot traffic throughout the pathway and ensuring that visitors have the opportunity to engage with the site in a manner that is both meaningful and responsible. Furthermore, the adaptability of the design allows for modifications based on visitor numbers and environmental conditions, showcasing a modern approach to architectural planning.

The Pathway stands as a notable example of how architecture can be utilized to create a respectful dialogue between people and nature. It invites visitors to not only appreciate the geological features but also to understand their significance in the broader context of environmental conservation. With its combination of educational elements, responsible material selection, and innovative structural design, The Pathway achieves a balanced approach that resonates with contemporary architectural ideas.

For those interested in exploring this project further, additional details can be found in the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate how The Pathway effectively merges aesthetic and functional demands while remaining deeply rooted in its geographical context. Engaging with these elements will offer a richer understanding of the project and its inspired architectural vision.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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