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Spiral Platform Constructed of Charred Wood and Steel Overlooking Native Ecosystems

Authors:
Sahr Farooq, Hadia Azed, Ifrah Asif
Spiral Platform Constructed of Charred Wood and Steel Overlooking Native Ecosystems

Project in-detail

A spiraling platform of charred wood and steel integrates with the landscape while providing a vantage point for observing the diverse ecosystems of Kemeri Park, enhancing visitor engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
A spiral pathway enhances visitor flow and creates varied viewing angles of the landscape.
02
Charred wood shingles provide aesthetic contrast while improving durability and weather resistance.
03
The bent A-frame design minimizes ground disturbance and integrates with the natural topography.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce material waste and promote sustainable building practices.
05
Native plantings surround the structure, enriching local biodiversity and supporting ecosystems.

# Architectural Design Report: Up the Junction Observatory

## Overview

Located within Kemeri Park, the Up the Junction Observatory serves as an observational platform that connects pedestrian pathways and enriches visitor interactions with the surrounding ecology. The design emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, creating a framework for multi-sensory experiences that encourage visitors to explore the natural environment.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The observatory features a unique dual route system that guides visitors from ground level to an elevated observation deck. A circular walkway spirals upward, enhancing visibility of the park’s diverse landscapes. This configuration not only facilitates smooth circulation but also incorporates educational elements that promote awareness of local ecosystems and native species. Seating areas along the pathway provide opportunities for reflection and deeper engagement with the picturesque surroundings.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

The observatory is constructed with sustainably sourced materials that align with modern environmental standards. Predominantly, wood shapes the boardwalks and structure, fostering a natural aesthetic that complements the park's landscape. Structural integrity is provided by steel, which supports slender forms while ensuring durability. The incorporation of glass enhances visual openness, allowing natural light to permeate the space and frame views of the landscape. This careful selection of materials contributes to a lightweight and immersive structure that minimizes ecological impact, promoting biodiversity through elevated design that disturbs the ground minimally. Native plantings are integrated into the surrounding landscape, further enhancing ecological balance and habitat preservation.

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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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