Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Elevated Observation Platforms Crafted from Steel and Copper Amidst Volcanic Terrain

Author:
Monika Jokiel
Elevated Observation Platforms Crafted from Steel and Copper Amidst Volcanic Terrain

Project in-detail

Crafted observation platforms of steel and copper rise above the volcanic landscape, designed to enhance visitor engagement through breathtaking views and carefully integrated sightseeing trails.
5 key facts about this project
01
Observation platforms are designed to enhance airflow, minimizing wind obstruction in a volcanic setting.
02
The structure integrates existing ski lift infrastructure to improve accessibility for visitors.
03
Trail designs cater to varying skill levels, promoting a broader range of outdoor activities.
04
Steel and copper materials are chosen for durability in the harsh volcanic climate.
05
The layout is inspired by the surrounding peaks, reinforcing the connection to the natural landscape.

The design at Nemrut Volcano aims to create a visitor-friendly space in a striking volcanic landscape. The project seeks to enhance visitor interaction by incorporating observation platforms and trails that blend with the surrounding environment. The overall vision emphasizes balance and connection to nature, allowing the structures to connect visitors with the landscape while providing necessary access for outdoor activities.

Site Components

The site plan includes several key features such as trails for advanced skiers and those looking for a moderate experience. A main lookout point is well placed to provide expansive views of the volcano and its surroundings, encouraging appreciation of this unique natural setting. Existing amenities like the ski lift and seasonal shop enhance the accessibility of the site and support future tourism development efforts.

Architectural Concept

Attention is drawn to how wind interacts with the design. The buildings are arranged to minimize wind obstruction, allowing for smooth airflow around them. The approach relies on sloped forms that rise gently from the land, offering an integrated appearance with the terrain. This blending of architecture and nature highlights the relationship between built structures and the geological features of the area.

Observation Platforms

Key to the design are two observation platforms, which are positioned to maximize viewing opportunities. Each platform is designed at a scale of 1:100 and features varying heights. The top level stands at +9.60 meters, the second platform reaches 4.20 meters, and the first is at 2.10 meters above the ridge level of 0.00 meters. This tiered arrangement allows visitors to experience different perspectives and appreciate the diverse landforms of the volcanic area.

Material Specifications

Material choices are important in ensuring durability and functionality. Steel and copper plates are used for their strength and weather resistance, key factors in this volcanic environment. Additionally, reinforced concrete piles form a robust foundation designed to endure the geological conditions. These selections support the overall structural integrity while maintaining a connection to the landscape.

The design emphasizes a strong connection to its surroundings, especially evident in the careful attention paid to the elevations. Each elevation—northern, southern, western, and eastern—has been thoughtfully crafted to reflect the landscape, enhancing the spatial experience for visitors. The architecture invites interaction between people and nature, making it a place of exploration and appreciation within the striking backdrop of Nemrut Volcano.

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