Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Elevated Volcanic Viewpoints With Charred Wooden Shingles And Geothermal Energy Solutions

Authors:
Anton Schneider, Andri Luescher, Ryan Nguyen, Miaojie Zhang
Elevated Volcanic Viewpoints With Charred Wooden Shingles And Geothermal Energy Solutions

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels create a harmonious blend with the volcanic landscape, while geothermal energy solutions enable a sustainable visitor experience at the café and multifunctional space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while blending seamlessly with the volcanic backdrop.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength and environmental sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes views over the unique geological features.
04
Geothermal energy solutions are integrated to minimize the building's ecological footprint.
05
A network of gravel pathways encourages exploration and interaction with the surrounding landscape.
The project, titled "Over The Crevice – On the Beautiful & the Sublime," is an innovative architectural endeavor set within a unique volcanic landscape. The design of this project intricately engages with its surroundings, reflecting a deep understanding of the natural environment and the experiences it can offer to its visitors. By harmonizing the architectural elements with the rugged topography, the project represents a thoughtful exploration of how human-made structures can enhance, rather than detract from, the beauty of nature.

Functionally, the project serves several purposes, facilitating the movement and interaction of visitors throughout the area. It consists of multiple key elements, including a tower or bridge structure that provides an elevated viewpoint over the volcanic terrain, a parking pavilion that accommodates visitor vehicles, and a café designed to enhance social interaction among guests. Each of these elements is carefully positioned to maximize the experience of the landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the dramatic geological features while navigating through the site.

The design takes on a dual thematic approach. One aspect focuses on the 'Profane,' representing public experiences, while the other addresses the 'Sacred,' symbolizing private spaces. This duality informs the layout and movement throughout the site. The pathways, composed of gravel, facilitate both formal and informal exploration, encouraging a connection with the natural vegetation and surroundings. As visitors traverse these pathways, they are guided toward various structures that punctuate the landscape, creating a unified yet diverse experience.

Unique design approaches are evident in the careful selection of materials used throughout the project. Wooden elements provide warmth and a tactile connection to nature, while metal panels create reflective surfaces that engage dynamically with the changing light conditions. Glass is incorporated to enhance transparency and maximize views of the landscape, allowing the structures to feel integrated with their environment. The use of concrete piles provides foundational stability while minimizing disruption to the delicate geological features of the site. This thoughtful materiality underscores a commitment to sustainability and environmental consideration, further enhancing the project’s relevance.

One of the standout features of the project is its incorporation of geothermal energy solutions. Positioned alongside the Parking Pavilion, geothermal wells create a renewable energy source to support the facility’s operations. This aspect not only demonstrates forward-thinking architectural strategies but also reinforces the project's ecological responsibility.

Overall, "Over The Crevice – On the Beautiful & the Sublime" exemplifies a contemporary architectural design that prioritizes environmental engagement, visitor experience, and sustainability. The way in which the project interacts with the volcanic landscape illustrates a thoughtful response to the geographical context, promoting a greater appreciation for both the natural and built environments. For those interested in exploring the design further, including the architectural plans, sections, and conceptual ideas, a detailed project presentation offers a comprehensive overview. Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural philosophies that shaped this remarkable project.
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