Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Reflective Steel and Local Timber Structure Offering Dynamic Views in a Geological Landscape

Author:
Seungsoo Lee
Reflective Steel and Local Timber Structure Offering Dynamic Views in a Geological Landscape

Project in-detail

The triangular prism shape crafted from reflective steel and local timber creates a seamless connection with its geological setting while offering diverse observation points for visitors to engage with the stunning landscape of the Nemrut Caldera.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular prism shape maximizes viewing angles while minimizing land impact.
02
Constructed using locally sourced timber to enhance sustainability and contextual relevance.
03
Incorporates reflective stainless steel elements that blend with the surrounding landscape.
04
Features prefabricated components for efficient assembly and reduced ecological disruption.
05
Engaging knotted net elements foster active interaction and exploration among visitors.

### Overview

The Triangular-Prism Observation (TPO) is situated within the Nemrut Caldera, recognized as Europe’s largest caldera and the fourth largest globally. This structure is designed to foster visual and experiential connections with the surrounding landscape, enabling visitors to engage with the geological features of the region. The architectural intent is to respect and integrate with the natural environment, providing multiple vantage points from which to appreciate the diverse terrain.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The design incorporates three distinct observation areas, each offering varied heights and perspectives. This multi-tiered approach allows for an enhanced understanding of the caldera and its geological characteristics. The triangular prism form is instrumental in refracting light, creating dynamic visual experiences that change with the viewer’s position. This strategic layering encourages exploration and interaction, inviting guests to consider their surroundings from various angles and depths.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices are central to the TPO’s alignment with environmental principles. Reflective materials, such as mirror-polished stainless steel, are utilized for handrails, enhancing the aesthetic while engaging with the landscape. Local wood elements in the decking establish a sense of place and focus on sustainability. Durable concrete forms the foundational aspects, engineered to minimize ecological disturbance in sensitive areas. Additionally, interactive knotted nets provide safety and invite visitor engagement, contributing to the overall sensory experience of the site.

The construction methodology involved prefabrication to facilitate transport via helicopter, reflecting a commitment to logistical innovation while respecting the natural topography. This extensive attention to detail in both design and execution underscores the project's dedication to environmental stewardship, visitor engagement, and architectural integrity.

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

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy