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Hanging Chain Vault Structure Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Overlooking Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Naomi Tashiro, Samantha Melnyk, Emi Shiraishi
Hanging Chain Vault Structure Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Overlooking Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Suspended above the volcanic terrain, the hanging chain vault structure made of cross-laminated timber panels provides an elevated lookout point for visitors to engage with the breathtaking landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended design utilizes a chain vault structure to adapt to the volcanic topography.
02
Constructed with sustainable cross-laminated timber for improved eco-efficiency.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and enhance aesthetic integration.
04
Parametric design allows responsive adaptation to environmental conditions.
05
Strategically positioned sightlines offer unique views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.

# Architectural Design Report on "The Anchor" at Nemrut Volcano

## Project Overview
**Project Title:** The Anchor
**Competition:** Nemrut Volcano Eyes Competition
**Location:** Nemrut Volcano, eastern Turkey, recognized for its distinctive geological formation and historical association with ancient ruins.

The Anchor is designed as a lookout point that actively engages with the surrounding volcanic landscape. The objective is to provide visitors with expansive views of the unique topography while ensuring minimal environmental impact. The design approach incorporates organic forms and fluid dynamics, informed by a comprehensive analysis of the site's geological characteristics.

## Form and Structural Response
The architectural form employs a hanging chain vault structure, which not only offers stability but also presents a visually compelling profile. The curvature of the design aligns with the edge of the crater, adapting to the natural contours of the land. This visual language draws inspiration from the volcanic landscape, thereby integrating the structure into its geological context.

Parametric design methodologies have been utilized to enhance the adaptability of the structure. The anchors of the chain vault are engineered to respond flexibly to variations in terrain, ensuring resilience against environmental conditions. The project is also characterized by a carefully curated material palette that promotes both aesthetic harmony and structural integrity.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
The material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability while meeting structural needs:

- **Timber**: Chosen for its lightweight nature and environmental sustainability, timber fosters a connection between the built form and the natural setting.
- **Reinforced Concrete**: Utilized for the foundation to provide stability and moisture protection.
- **Metal Fasteners**: Serving to connect prefabricated wooden components, these elements contribute to structural durability while allowing for flexibility in assembly.

The design incorporates prefabricated components to facilitate efficient construction with minimal site disruption, prioritizing an eco-friendly approach through the use of locally sourced materials.

Further, the design integrates into the landscape by contouring to the landform and addressing sightlines that enhance the overall visitor experience. Thoughtfully planned pathways guide visitors towards the structure, allowing for engagement with both the architectural element and the panoramic views of the surrounding area.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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