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Mirrored Pyramids Elevating Public Engagement in a Natural Landscape

Author:
Kyle Mahoney
Mirrored Pyramids Elevating Public Engagement in a Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing mirrored glass to reflect its natural surroundings, the observatory integrates elevated pyramid forms that enhance visitor engagement with the landscape while fostering accessibility for all.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes mirrored glass to create visual harmony with the surrounding landscape.
02
Features elevated, warped pyramid forms to enhance panoramic viewing experiences.
03
Incorporates slender steel columns to maintain a minimal visual footprint.
04
Integrates gentle pathways for seamless visitor access throughout the natural terrain.
05
Promotes biodiversity observation through reflective architectural elements.

Periscopic Dell presents a thoughtfully designed observatory located in Kemeri National Park, Latvia. This architectural project serves as a public observatory, allowing visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape from elevated vantage points. The structure integrates advanced design approaches with an emphasis on environmental sensitivity and accessibility.

The architectural design utilizes a series of warped pyramid forms constructed from materials that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Core to its function, the observatory creates spaces for visitors to grasp the beauty of the park, encouraging both observation and interaction. The structure is elevated, featuring suspended elements that invite exploration of nature while maintaining a minimal footprint on the land.

Unique Structural Approach

One of the distinct features of the Periscopic Dell is its innovative use of mirrored glass in combination with slender steel columns. This design not only supports the structure but also enhances the visibility of the natural surroundings through reflection, articulating a visual connection between structure and landscape. The use of these materials contributes to a modern aesthetic while ensuring that the observatory remains unobtrusive.

Additionally, the design incorporates gentle pathways that invite visitors to navigate through the landscape rather than adhering to conventional rigid routes. This form of access promotes a more natural interaction with the park's ecosystem while accommodating diverse mobility levels among visitors.

Interactive and Adaptive Spaces

The layout of the observatory includes various interactive spaces designed to accommodate a range of activities. Users can engage in peaceful observation, scientific inquiry, or simply take a moment to relax within the grassy earthworks that complement the architectural elements. These adaptable spaces foster a deep connection with the ecological context of the observatory, allowing for a versatile visitor experience.

The Periscopic Dell stands as an exemplary model of how architecture can harmonize with the natural environment while enhancing user engagement. For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, interested readers are encouraged to explore the overall presentation of the project.

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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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