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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
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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.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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