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Cylindrical Structure with Locally Sourced Stone Enhances Mountain Viewpoint Experience

Authors:
Daniel Wolberg, Justin Watson, Randy Chu, Peter Myller
Cylindrical Structure with Locally Sourced Stone Enhances Mountain Viewpoint Experience

Project in-detail

Embodying a cylindrical form with a gabion wall of locally sourced stone, the structure offers an immersive hiking experience while providing a panoramic viewpoint for visitors in the mountainous landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from locally sourced stone, the gabion wall enhances the building's connection to its mountainous site.
02
The cylindrical design promotes natural airflow and optimizes panoramic views for visitors at various heights.
03
Strategic apertures throughout the structure allow filtered light to create changing interior atmospheres throughout the day.
04
The spiraling pathway within encourages a gradual ascent, enhancing visitor engagement with the landscape.
05
Sustainable construction methods minimize environmental disruption while utilizing materials that echo the surrounding geology.
The CALDERA project is an architectural installation situated in a mountainous region, designed to serve as a welcome retreat for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its cylindrical stone structure, positioned strategically at the crest of a mountain, is both a landmark and a functional space. The architecture integrates seamlessly with the natural terrain, embodying principles of sustainability while facilitating visitor interaction with the surrounding landscape. The project’s design emphasizes both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality, forging a connection between architectural form and the natural environment.

Reducing environmental impact was a core design consideration. The use of locally sourced materials, specifically for the gabion wall, fosters a sense of place and minimizes ecological disruption. The primary materials deployed in the project include concrete for the structural integrity and durability of the interior and a gabion wall composed of native stone that harmonizes with the mountainous landscape. These material choices not only fulfill functional requirements but also promote a visually cohesive relationship with the environment.

Unique Design Strategies

A pivotal element of CALDERA is its cyclic movement and spatial organization. Visitors are directed along a spiraling path that gradually ascends, creating a sense of anticipation. The design fosters exploration as each step reveals curated views of the landscape, culminating in a 360-degree panoramic view at the summit. This architectural approach encourages interaction between occupants and their surroundings, stimulating connection to the site’s natural beauty.

The architectural form itself is characterized by its simplicity, which contrasts with the complexity of the experiences it offers. The cylindrical design evokes geological formations, such as calderas, while the compact doorway provides a threshold that transforms the visitor's experience from the external world to the interior sanctum. This transition signifies a shift from exploration to reflection, enabling a deeper engagement with the landscape.

Spatial Dynamics and Interior Experience

Inside, the concrete structure creates an open yet intimate environment. The use of light and strategic apertures allows natural illumination to permeate the space, enhancing the interior atmosphere. The minimalistic design ensures that the focus remains on the breathtaking views outside. Each architectural choice enhances the user experience, turning the interior into a contemplative space while maximizing visual connections to the landscape.

The CALDERA project exemplifies effective architectural planning through its innovative material use, thoughtful spatial organization, and integration with the surrounding environment. For a more thorough understanding of the project's architecture, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, exploration of the project presentation is encouraged.
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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
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