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Etched Brass Viewing Tower Merging Concrete and Landscape in Volcanic Terrain

Authors:
Dora Šterić, Stefan Slavić
Etched Brass Viewing Tower Merging Concrete and Landscape in Volcanic Terrain

Project in-detail

A glass and etched brass viewing tower rises from the volcanic landscape, expertly blending concrete architecture with its rugged surroundings to create a multifunctional space for observing the breathtaking terrain.
5 key facts about this project
01
A viewing tower positioned at the edge of a volcanic cap enhances the connection between architecture and landscape.
02
The use of etched brass elements reflects ambient light, adding a dynamic quality to the structure.
03
Concrete construction integrates with the geological features, ensuring durability in a rugged environment.
04
An interconnected network of pathways encourages exploration and engagement with the surrounding terrain.
05
Landscaped areas around the structure promote biodiversity and seasonal changes in the environment.

### Project Overview

Situated at the foot of a prominent geological feature in Turkey, close to the country's third-largest volcano, the design aims to create a connection between visitors and the surrounding landscape. The concept emphasizes the relationship between natural and built environments, resulting in a structure that complements the volcanic terrain while functioning as a viewing platform for the area’s scenic vistas.

### Spatial Engagement

The design strategically positions the structure at the uninhabited edges of the volcanic cap, optimizing panoramic views and enhancing user experience. The contrast between the rugged terrain and the architectural form serves to heighten the visual and sensory richness of the site. By selecting a vantage point that offers expansive perspectives, the design fosters a deeper connection with nature, transitioning the experience from mere observation to active engagement.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The material selection reflects a deliberate response to the site’s natural textures and colors, promoting both functionality and sustainability. Key materials include:

- **Concrete**: Provides a stable foundation and durability, aligning with the geological context.
- **Glass**: Introduces transparency and allows for unobstructed views, contributing a lightweight quality to certain structural elements.
- **Etched Brass**: Offers visual and tactile complexity, engaging visitors and enhancing the sensory experience while ensuring durability.

These materials not only enhance the visual appeal of the structure but also support environmentally-conscious design principles, reinforcing its integration with the landscape.

### Architectural Features

The design results in a multi-faceted structure characterized by:

- **Viewing Tower**: Prominently rising from the landscape, it facilitates unique perspectives that enhance the connection between visitors and their surroundings.
- **Circulation Elements**: Pathways and staircases encourage exploration and movement, integrating organically with the sloped terrain and offering varying heights and viewpoints throughout the site.
- **Natural Integration**: Careful incorporation of planting and natural elements blurs the boundaries between the built environment and the landscape, creating a dynamic, living space that evolves with the seasons.

This project showcases careful intent, transforming the structure into an integral part of its natural backdrop, fostering interaction and engagement with the geological narrative of the region.

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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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