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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
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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