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Hexagonal Observation Point Crafted from Volcanic Rock and Charred Timber Panels

Authors:
Rohan Shenoy, Yevgeniya Semanivska, Jorge Juárez mendoza
Hexagonal Observation Point Crafted from Volcanic Rock and Charred Timber Panels

Project in-detail

The hexagonal observation point, constructed from volcanic rock and charred timber panels, seamlessly integrates with its landscape to provide a sheltered space for visitors to connect with the dramatic vistas of Nemrut Volcano.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal design mirrors the volcano's crater shape for contextual relevance.
02
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic rock to enhance site integration.
03
Charred timber panels provide aesthetic warmth and fire-resistant qualities.
04
Sheltered viewing areas maximize visitor comfort while engaging with nature.
05
Natural seating arrangements replicate the surrounding landscape’s form.

## Project Overview

The Nemrut Volcano Eyes observation point is situated at Nemrut Volcano in Turkey, where it aims to create a space that emphasizes the natural landscape's beauty alongside its cultural significance. The project is designed to enhance visitors' experiences through a thoughtful integration of architectural elements that reflect the region's heritage and the volcanic landscape, allowing for a deeper connection to the area's historical and ecological context.

## Design Intent and Symbolism

The architectural design features a dual-level layout, enabling engagement with both the natural environment and the cultural narratives of the site. The structure’s geometric forms—circles, hexagons, triangles, and stars—represent local beliefs and traditions, symbolizing connections to the heavens and human experience. Inspired by the crater’s shape, the hexagonal design reinforces the relationship between the structure, nature, and Islamic heritage, visualizing the intersection of spirituality and the natural world.

## Material Selection and Structural Outcomes

Materiality is a critical aspect of the project’s design ethos, employing volcanic rock for its local significance, wood for warmth, glass for expansive views, and steel for structural integrity. This combination enhances the tactile and visual experience for visitors while responding to the challenging weather conditions of the region. The interior layout, featuring an open air level for direct interaction with the environment and an enclosed level for protected contemplation, promotes a dynamic user experience that emphasizes exploration and connection with the surroundings.

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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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