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Reflective Stainless Steel Structure Set Among Laminated Timber and Teak Overlooking Natural Landscapes

Authors:
KEREMCAN KIRILMAZ, ERDEM BATIRBEK
Reflective Stainless Steel Structure Set Among Laminated Timber and Teak Overlooking Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

With a curvilinear form clad in reflective stainless steel and built atop a stable foundation of laminated timber, the structure offers an immersive vantage point for observing the surrounding landscape while fostering educational engagement with local wildlife.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design mimics natural growth patterns, enhancing the structure's integration with the landscape.
02
Reflective stainless steel skin captures changing light, contributing to the immersive experience for visitors.
03
Laminated timber construction ensures structural strength while maintaining a warm aesthetic.
04
Multi-level observation platforms provide 360-degree views for diverse wildlife engagement opportunities.
05
Incorporated educational panels support visitor interaction and awareness of local ecosystems.

### Project Overview

GLINT is an observation structure located within a natural setting, designed to integrate harmoniously with its surroundings. The project emphasizes the connection between architecture and nature, creating a space that facilitates reflection and observation for visitors. Its design focuses on enhancing user interaction with the environment, inviting a deeper appreciation of the landscape through strategically organized observation points.

### Form and Spatial Strategy

The architectural form of GLINT draws inspiration from natural growth patterns, featuring a tall, slender silhouette that minimizes land use while maximizing visibility. The structure's outer shell exhibits a biomimetic quality, resembling the fluidity and movement found in flora, thereby enhancing the visual experience for users. Multiple observation platforms are incorporated into the design, allowing for 360-degree views and creating opportunities for users to engage with their surroundings in various ways. Additionally, integrated folding seating provides comfort and encourages prolonged engagement with the environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability

GLINT prioritizes sustainable material choices in its construction, utilizing laminated timber for its core, which contributes both strength and warmth. A weather-resistant outer layer of stainless steel serves as a durable, reflective skin that interacts dynamically with light throughout the day. Teak is employed for decking and railings due to its durability and resistance to weathering. The foundation incorporates concretefooting and micropiles for stability, and an earth down-conductor enhances safety by redirecting lightning strikes. These material selections not only reduce maintenance needs but also promote ecological balance by allowing local vegetation and wildlife to thrive in the area. Additionally, strategic openings within the design facilitate natural airflow, enhancing energy efficiency by minimizing reliance on artificial cooling systems.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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