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Elevated Periscopes Amidst Nature's Landscape with Wooden Framework

Author:
Ricardo Leon
Elevated Periscopes Amidst Nature's Landscape with Wooden Framework

Project in-detail

Four periscopes rise from a wooden framework, offering elevated views of the natural landscape and transforming the experience of observation into an interactive journey through a public viewing platform.
5 key facts about this project
01
Four periscopes provide unique elevated views of the surrounding park.
02
The design incorporates all-wood construction for environmental harmony.
03
Accessible ramps connect multiple viewing levels for inclusivity.
04
Bent plywood sheets create a distinct exterior aesthetic.
05
Sound chambers enhance the sensory experience through interactive features.

The View Palace is located in Kemeri National Park and serves as a platform for observing the surrounding landscape. It focuses on accessibility and engagement with nature, encouraging visitors to explore and appreciate the area. The design centers on creating a connection between the structure and its environment, allowing for a unique experience of the natural beauty.

Design and Structure

The building's design features a vertical arrangement supported by wooden elements that shape its overall appearance. This arrangement not only reinforces the character of the building but also enhances views of the landscape from various angles. Ramps facilitate movement between the upper and lower viewing levels, making it easy for all visitors to navigate the space.

Viewing Experience

The lower level contains four periscopes at different heights, offering alternative views of the park. Constructed from wood, these periscopes use mirrors to provide elevated perspectives of the surroundings. Visitors interact with their environment in an engaging way, as the periscopes can also function as sound chambers when mirrors are removed, adding another layer to the sensory experience.

Material Selection

The project primarily uses wood for its structural framework. This all-wood construction complements the warm and natural aesthetic of the design. Bent sheets of plywood are utilized on the exterior, which helps the structure integrate with its natural setting. The careful choice of materials demonstrates a commitment to both functionality and environmental consideration.

Accessibility Features

A significant aspect of the View Palace is its focus on accessibility. Every area of the building can be reached without shortcuts, allowing all individuals, including those using wheelchairs, to access the viewing points. This approach indicates an understanding of the need for spaces that serve a diverse group of users and fosters a sense of community and inclusion.


The interaction of wooden elements with the natural scenery creates a calming environment, inviting everyone to enjoy moments of tranquility in the midst of nature.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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