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Lichen-Covered Roof Plates and Corten Steel Form a Dynamic Observation Shelter

Authors:
Edwin Zawadzki, Mason Wickham, Siyu Miao
Lichen-Covered Roof Plates and Corten Steel Form a Dynamic Observation Shelter

Project in-detail

Lichen-covered roof plates and a corten steel observation tower create a harmonious blend of natural and constructed environments, providing shelter and panoramic views for visitors exploring the geological features of the landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lichen-covered roof plates blend with the natural landscape.
02
A corten steel observation tower provides panoramic views.
03
Skylights enhance natural lighting and connection to the outdoors.
04
Terraced levels accommodate diverse visitor activities.
05
Stainless-steel jacks reflect exterior elements, creating visual interest.

The Middle Sphere Tourist Den is located in a unique natural landscape, serving as both a shelter and an observation point. The structure is designed to enhance the visitor experience by providing access to important geological features and natural caves. The overall design concept revolves around the idea of a "middle sphere," acting as a bridge between the earth and sky, and inviting exploration and interaction.

Architectural Integration

The design connects with the landscape through thoughtfully arranged elevations and terraces. These features allow visitors to move easily throughout the site. At the core of the design are the café and lounge, which offer travelers a place to rest while maximizing views of the surrounding area. This layout encourages social interaction and promotes a deeper connection with nature.

Material Use

Materials play a crucial role in the overall appearance and functionality of the Middle Sphere Tourist Den. Lichen-covered roof plates give the building a natural look, reflecting the area's geological features. Skylights between the plates let in daylight, enhancing the connection between the interior space and the exterior environment. Each of these elements is carefully chosen to enhance the overall atmosphere.

Structural Elements

Polished and raw stainless-steel jacks serve as structural supports. They reflect elements from outside, creating interesting light and shadow patterns inside the building. The observation tower is made of corten steel, giving it a distinct visual presence. Additionally, concrete and lava stone are used in ramps and seating areas, creating practical and inviting spaces for various visitor activities.

The design culminates in an observation tower with a periscope-like shape, providing an elevated view of the landscape. This feature highlights the surrounding environment, allowing visitors to take in the natural beauty while experiencing the architectural space.

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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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