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Sustainable Visitor Center Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Basalt Stone Integration

Author:
Frederik Cuyvers
Sustainable Visitor Center Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Basalt Stone Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber panels and local basalt stone, the visitor center seamlessly integrates into its landscape while serving as an educational gateway to the Butterfly Cave.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced basalt stone to enhance regional connectivity.
02
Incorporates an innovative modular pathway system for improved accessibility.
03
Features elevated viewing platforms designed to promote engagement with the landscape.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for resilience and aesthetic integration with the environment.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
The Butterfly Cave Tower serves as a visitor center designed to enhance the experience of those exploring the Butterfly Cave and its surrounding landscape. The project is situated in an area distinguished by its unique geological features, specifically the remnants of lava tubes. This architectural design harmonizes with the environment while providing essential amenities for visitors.

The primary function of the Butterfly Cave Tower is to facilitate access to the cave while offering educational resources related to the site. This center features essential facilities such as ticketing areas, restrooms, a café, and informational displays, all organized in a manner that allows for easy navigation and interaction.

Integration with Natural Topography
The architectural design draws inspiration from the local geological formations. Its asymmetrical layout emulates the contours of the landscape, featuring multi-level spaces that rise and fall in harmony with the topography. Elevated viewing platforms provide perspectives of the surrounding terrain, encouraging visitors to engage with the natural environment.

Local Materiality and Sustainability
A fundamental aspect of the design is the careful selection of materials. The structure utilizes reinforced exposed concrete for durability alongside sustainable timber elements that introduce warmth into interior spaces. Local basalt stone is featured prominently, grounding the building in its geographic context. The use of these materials not only ensures the architecture's longevity but also minimizes environmental impact, signaling a focus on sustainability.

Functional Design for Visitor Engagement
The building's layout is functional, allowing for multi-use spaces that adapt to varying visitor needs. The modular pathway system enhances accessibility, accommodating visitors as they traverse the site's rugged features. Unique to this project are the viewing towers that elevate visitor experience by providing panoramas of significant geological formations, further linking the architectural space to its natural surroundings.

For a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies behind the Butterfly Cave Tower, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail its unique features and overall architectural idea. Insights into these elements will enrich your appreciation of this project and its integration within the landscape.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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