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Framed Lookouts in the Caldera Embracing Deciduous Ecology

Authors:
João Ribeiro, Daniel Nunes, Elisabete Pinho, António Brancas
Framed Lookouts in the Caldera Embracing Deciduous Ecology

Project in-detail

Nestled among the deciduous trees of the Nemrut Caldera, the carefully positioned lookout points offer visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the landscape while reflecting on its geological history.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to blend with the unique microclimate of the Nemrut Caldera.
02
Provides distinct lookout points that showcase geological features of the area.
03
Incorporates resting areas to enhance visitor comfort and reflection.
04
Utilizes natural topography to inform the pathway's alignment and accessibility.
05
Emphasizes ecological preservation while enhancing visitor engagement with nature.

The project at Nemrut Volcano in eastern Turkey aims to create an observation point that enhances the experience of visitors engaging with the surrounding landscape. Located west of Lake Van, this area is recognized for its dormant volcanic features and the prominent Nemrut Caldera. The design centers on a route that allows for meaningful interaction with the site’s natural beauty and ecological diversity while focusing on sustainability and accessibility.

Design Concept and Engagement

The architectural focus is on a structured pathway that guides visitors through a series of experiences with distinct lookout points. Positioned at varying heights, these spots frame views of the crater and Lake Van. This setup allows visitors to fully appreciate the area's topographical diversity and geological history. The pathway is designed for both ascent and reflection, fostering a connection with the environment and inviting contemplation of the landscape.

Environmental Sensitivity

A commitment to environmental sensitivity stands at the core of the design. The layout incorporates resting areas that prioritize user comfort and encourage moments of pause. Visitors are invited to reflect on the unique microclimate and plant life of the Nemrut region. The area's caldera supports deciduous trees that thrive at high altitudes due to specific conditions. This design thoughtfully acknowledges natural elements to ensure the pathway harmonizes with its surroundings while minimizing ecological impact.

Materiality and Sustainability

While specific materials are not detailed in the presentation, the design emphasizes sustainable practices and low maintenance options. This approach is important given the fragile ecosystem of the site. Interventions are carefully planned to enhance the visitor experience and sustain the ecological integrity of the environment. The overarching vision reflects a focus on coexistence with the natural world.

The pathway and lookout points lead visitors to engage more deeply with the landscape, framing the surrounding geological features in ways that highlight their importance. Every turn along the route encourages a pause, inviting visitors to absorb the beauty and history that the Nemrut area has to offer.

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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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