Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

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
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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