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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
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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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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

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