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Tiered Observation Deck Featuring Local Materials and Sustainable Practices Nestled in Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Anna Talalaeva, Mariа Belousova
Tiered Observation Deck Featuring Local Materials and Sustainable Practices Nestled in Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing tiered concrete and glass construction harmonized with the volcanic landscape, the observation deck provides engaging educational experiences while promoting sustainability through local material usage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced concrete, enhancing both sustainability and regional identity.
02
Incorporates large glass panels to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the volcanic landscape.
03
Features tiered levels that create a dynamic transition and narration of the geological history of the site.
04
Includes interactive exhibits that engage visitors in hands-on learning about the surrounding environment.
05
Utilizes passive ventilation strategies to ensure energy efficiency and comfort throughout the year.

### Overview

The Volcanic Tower of Babel functions as an observation deck situated in a volcanic landscape near Nemrut Volcano, intended to enhance the visitor experience while connecting ancient history with contemporary architectural interpretation. The design integrates innovative materials and strategic zoning, reflecting themes of exploration and a commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

### Spatial Strategy and Visitor Journey

The architectural layout emphasizes a tiered design that guides visitors from an entrance area through various lookout points, culminating in the observation deck that offers expansive views of the volcanic terrain. This progression through the structure is intentional, creating a narrative that intertwines the historical significance of the Tower of Babel with the visitor experience, promoting a sense of exploration and discovery.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration

The exterior employs concrete for durability, while glass elements facilitate unobstructed views and natural light, creating an open and inviting atmosphere. Wooden accents contrast with the concrete, enhancing warmth and connection to the natural environment. Inside, the use of exposed timber beams and textured concrete walls enriches the tactile experience, while a sophisticated ventilation system aligns with sustainable building practices, optimizing passive heating and cooling. Each material choice supports environmental harmony and reinforces the building's contextual relationship with its surroundings.

The design incorporates distinct functional areas including an exhibition zone that educates visitors about the geological significance of the locale, a recreation area for relaxation and social interaction, and an interactive zone that encourages hands-on experiences. By focusing on these aspects, the Volcanic Tower of Babel fosters a comprehensive understanding of its historic and geological context, while maximizing engagement with the 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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