Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Rust and Steel Encounters in a Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Lesia Petrovska, Robert john Lewis, Semih Igci
Rust and Steel Encounters in a Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed from rusted COR-TEN steel and supported by a robust framework, the design strategically embraces the volcanic landscape to provide unobstructed viewpoints, enhancing the experience of observation and interaction with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with COR-TEN steel, the structure ages naturally to blend with the volcanic setting.
02
Three dominant vistas are maximized for observation, enhancing visitor engagement with the landscape.
03
Each viewpoint is deliberately positioned to create a unique phenomenological experience.
04
Steel columns and beams provide structural resilience against extreme weather in the region.
05
The design encourages a collective experience among visitors through shared observation points.

Nemrut Volcano Eyes lies atop Nemrut Mountain, surrounded by a rich and diverse natural landscape. The design focuses on creating an experience that connects visitors to the unique physical features of the area. By emphasizing three main viewpoints—inside the volcano, Lake Van, and the adjacent valley—the structure encourages a deeper engagement with nature, inviting exploration and reflection.

Structural Framework

Steel columns and beams make up the core of the building's support system. This framework provides necessary stability while ensuring the structure can endure extreme weather conditions typical of the region. The design works in coordination with the local topography, enhancing the relationship between the observer and the remarkable landscape below.

Materiality

The building’s skin is composed of COR-TEN steel plates. This material is selected for its durability and natural aging process, which allows it to blend harmoniously with the rugged surroundings. COR-TEN steel requires less maintenance over time, aligning with the project's aim to create a structure that focuses on longevity and visual integration within the environment.

Experiential Components

The design thoughtfully arranges both dominant and fugitive vistas, enhancing the experience of observing the landscape. Each viewpoint is intentionally placed to foster a strong connection with the natural phenomena surrounding the site. Standard observation points are reimagined as engaging spaces, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in the unique characteristics of Nemrut Mountain.

Visitors share the experience of the landscape, creating a sense of community through collective observation. With carefully considered layouts and material choices, the design reflects and underscores the beauty and complexity of its geographical context. The result is a structure that serves as a thoughtful anchor in an extraordinary setting.

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