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Obsidian Lines Framing Expansive Views at Volcanic Belvedere

Authors:
Gizem Kadioglu, Izim can Kurtaran
Obsidian Lines Framing Expansive Views at Volcanic Belvedere

Project in-detail

Built with embedded obsidian lines for directional guidance, the viewing platform offers sweeping vistas of the Nemrut Volcano landscape while celebrating the site's historical significance as a connection point between past and present.
5 key facts about this project
01
Obsidian stone lines guide visitors to key viewpoints.
02
The platform is designed to blend with the natural topography.
03
It provides 360-degree views of Lake Van and volcanic formations.
04
Access pathways prioritize visitor comfort and ease of movement.
05
Historical significance is integrated into the landscape experience.

Nimrod's Belvedere is located near the Nemrut Volcano in Anatolia. It is designed to enhance appreciation for the area's cultural history and stunning natural features. This viewing platform allows visitors to engage with the landscape while reflecting on the legend of King Nimrod of Babylon. The design concept emphasizes the connection between the past and present, making the experience both informative and enriching.

Design Concept

The belvedere draws inspiration from the story of King Nimrod, a figure known for his vast kingdom and monumental achievements. The building encourages visitors to explore the area while immersing themselves in its history. The platform is meant to provide a sense of accomplishment as visitors make their way to the top, where they can take in the impressive surroundings.

Site Integration

Careful attention has been given to how the structure interacts with the land. The design follows the natural contours of the site, which helps create a smooth connection with the environment. The platform features extensions that maximize views, allowing for clear sightlines of landmarks like Lake Van and the nearby volcanic formations. This thoughtful arrangement highlights the unique geological patterns of the area.

Materiality and Detailing

Obsidian stone lines are integrated into the belvedere's surface. These lines not only serve a visual purpose but also act as a guide for visitors, leading them to important viewpoints. The use of local materials strengthens the relationship between the structure and its setting, creating a sense of unity with the landscape.

Visitor Experience

Access to the belvedere is designed with visitor comfort in mind. Pathways lead from the lift to the observation area, taking the easiest routes over the terrain. This approach encourages exploration and engagement as visitors make their way to the platform. Once there, they are greeted with wide views that unveil the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The observation platform incorporates various cantilevered sections that allow unobstructed vistas, ensuring that the experience is both fulfilling and enlightening.

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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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