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Suspended Glass Observation Platform with Reinforced Concrete Access Beneath Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Kirill Grebenshchikov, Danil Arefiev
Suspended Glass Observation Platform with Reinforced Concrete Access Beneath Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

A cantilevered glass observation platform emerges above Turkey's Nemrut Dağı, supported by a robust reinforced concrete structure that invites visitors to engage with the stunning volcanic landscape while embracing a sensory transition from subterranean depths to expansive views.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered glass design provides unobstructed views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Reinforced concrete walls form a monolithic underground passage, enhancing structural integrity.
03
The project seamlessly integrates into the existing topography, minimizing environmental impact.
04
Visitors experience a sensory transition from dark subterranean space to bright elevated deck.
05
Materials selected emphasize durability and transparency, creating a dialogue with the natural environment.

### Project Overview

The "Nemrut Volcano Eyes" observation platform is situated at Nemrut Dağı (Nemrut Mountain) in Turkey, designed to enhance the visitor experience within a dramatic volcanic landscape. The intent of the structure is to facilitate contemplation and observation, integrating both an elevated viewing point and a subterranean pathway. Visitors are invited to engage with the contrasting experiences of light and dark, as well as the natural and built environments.

### Spatial Experience and Design Elements

#### Observation Deck and Underground Passage

The observation platform spans approximately 30 square meters, supported by metal cantilever beams that create a lightweight appearance while providing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. The transparent glass enclosure offers panoramic vistas, establishing a close relationship between visitors and the natural scenery. In contrast, the 96-square-meter underground passage leads into the mountain, employing monolithic reinforced concrete walls for structural integrity and enhancing the visitor's anticipation through a progression from dark enclosed spaces to the bright observation deck above.

Access to the platform is achieved via a carefully designed trail that echoes the contours of the topography, prompting a contemplative journey. This pathway enhances the overall exploration of the site, integrating the observation point into the landscape.

### Materiality

The structural choices prioritize durability and visual connection. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary material in the passage, ensuring stability, while glass is utilized in the observation deck to foster transparency and illumination. Metal cantilever beams support the upper structure, enabling the platform to "float" above the ground. Natural materials are thoughtfully incorporated to maintain aesthetic continuity with the volcanic stone, promoting a harmonious relationship with the environment.

### Unique Aspects

The design emphasizes an innovative engineering solution through the cantilevered platform, which minimizes environmental impact while enriching the visual experience. This architectural approach invites visitors into a sensory exploration that starts in darkness and culminates in expansive views, fostering emotional engagement with the site. By addressing both structural integrity and user experience, the observation platform represents a significant contribution to contemporary architecture within a challenging landscape.

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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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