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Exploring Echoes Within Ellipsoid Voids in a Natural Landscape

Author:
Habeeb Muhammad
Exploring Echoes Within Ellipsoid Voids in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

The ellipsoid void at the center of two leaning parallel walls facilitates a dynamic acoustic experience in a visitor center purposefully designed for exploration and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ellipsoid void enhances spatial flexibility and visitor engagement.
02
Two parallel walls create a dynamic visual experience and guide movement.
03
The design fosters an interactive acoustic environment through unique echo properties.
04
Twisting staircase reveals the surrounding landscape progressively.
05
Focus on connecting built space with the natural environment enhances exploration.

The visitor center located next to the tower features a modern design focused on creating a welcoming experience for visitors. Set against a backdrop that likely includes natural rock formations, the center is designed to foster connection and community. The concept centers on two parallel walls with an ellipsoid void, which allows for a multifunctional space while encouraging social interaction among users.

Design Elements

The visitor center's configuration highlights the relationship between the two sloping walls that rise from the ground. These walls lean toward and away from each other, creating visual interest and guiding people through the space. Inside, a winding staircase provides access to the upper platform and invites exploration. Visitors experience a gradual unveiling of the surrounding landscape as they move upward, making each step feel like a small adventure.

Spatial Experience

Within the center, the unique design creates an interesting acoustic effect. The echo generated by the walls contrasts with the quiet of the outside, adding depth to the visitor experience. This relationship between sound and silence makes walking through the space both relaxing and engaging. It fosters a connection between the shelter of the built environment and the openness of nature just beyond it.

Materiality and Light

Although specific materials are not mentioned, the design implies a thoughtful approach to material choices that complement both the structure and its setting. Light filters through the ellipsoid void, creating patterns of shadow and brightness throughout the day. This variation enhances how the interior space is perceived and experienced by visitors, making it feel dynamic and alive.

The design encourages movement and exploration as it leads visitors towards the caves nearby. Each aspect of the center connects people to the building and the landscape, highlighting the relationship between the built environment and 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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