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Elevated Observation Space Crafted with Translucent Polycarbonate and Charred Cedar Wood

Authors:
Yutian Wang, Xiaoyu Wang, Shixin Chen
Elevated Observation Space Crafted with Translucent Polycarbonate and Charred Cedar Wood
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Crafted from charred cedar wood and translucent polycarbonate, this elevated memorial offers a reflective space for visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape while honoring the history of the site through its unique design and materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using charred cedar wood to enhance fire resistance and integrate with the natural environment.
02
The observation platform's design allows for 360-degree views while maintaining structural transparency.
03
Incorporates polycarbonate panels that filter natural light, creating dynamic shadow patterns throughout the day.
04
Features vertical gaps in the structure, inviting interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Utilizes lightweight steel framework to minimize the visual impact on the surrounding landscape.

### Overview

The Levitation Memorial is strategically situated in a landscape marked by historical destruction, functioning as both a memorial and an observation tower. Its design seeks to reflect the themes of memory, renewal, and the relationship between humans and nature. By replacing a previously burned structure, the memorial stands as a symbol of loss while encouraging reflection and interaction with its surroundings through a thoughtful exploration of lightness and elevation.

### Spatial Experience and User Interaction

Entering the observation tower involves a transition from a more enclosed, dimly lit area to an expansive observation platform. This shift enhances the user experience, allowing for an array of perspectives on the surrounding landscape through vertical gaps that connect visitors with both the natural environment and the structure itself. The design guides occupants towards a central vantage point, where a connection between earth and sky is established, providing both a literal and metaphorical elevation in perspective.

### Material Selection and Construction

The Levitation Memorial employs a carefully curated selection of materials that contribute to its aesthetic and functional objectives. Polycarbonate cladding ensures the structure is flooded with natural light, creating a translucent boundary between the interior and exterior. Inside, burned cedar wood siding provides warmth and a tactile link to the history of forest fires in the area. Complementing these materials, steel tube members and timber beams ensure structural integrity while fostering a minimalist design. The use of metal grating for flooring further emphasizes the concept of lightness, allowing visitors to engage visually with the ground below, while scaffold bracing contributes to the overall safety without compromising the open, airy design.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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