Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Monolithic Structure of Burnt Wood and Volcanic Stone Overlooking a Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Paul Noltet, Jules Babinet
Monolithic Structure of Burnt Wood and Volcanic Stone Overlooking a Volcanic Landscape
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Rising from the volcanic terrain, a monolithic structure combines burnt wood and local volcanic stone to create a unique hiking experience that bridges architecture and nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic form integrates seamlessly with the volcanic landscape.
02
Constructed using local volcanic stone gathered from the site.
03
Burnt wood cladding enhances durability while echoing natural features.
04
Light filters through openings, creating dynamic interior atmospheres.
05
Hiking path allows for experiential transitions between enclosed and open spaces.

The project is located on the crest of a volcano, designed to enhance the experience of hikers exploring its rugged landscape. A central idea is the connection between the built environment and the natural features of the site. As visitors walk along a wide path that follows the contours of the volcano, they are taken through a series of spaces that allow them to engage with their surroundings in different ways.

Conceptual Framework

The design forms a solid structure that stands out against the vast landscape. It focuses on how users will feel as they move through the space. Visitors transition from dark, enclosed areas to open, bright spaces. Each change in environment draws attention to the relationship between light and nature, encouraging exploration and discovery.

Materiality

Materials used in construction reflect the context of the site. The building is anchored with metal screws that provide stability while integrating it further into the landscape. Walls are formed from stones gathered nearby, reinforcing the connection to the geological features of the area. Burnt wood cladding also adds texture and echoes the volcanic surroundings, creating a cohesive link to the environment.

Spatial Experience

Light plays an important role in the design, filtering through openings that provide views of the lake and lava plains. This thoughtful use of natural light influences the atmosphere within the building. As hikers move between different types of spaces, they encounter environments that change, prompting a deeper connection with nature.

Visitors reach the upper levels where they can take in the expansive views, allowing them to appreciate the stunning scenery and the connection between their journey and the remarkable landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in