Periscope movie
Concept by Metamorphic Art Studio
Architecture by Claerhout-Van Biervliet Architects
Visuals & Film by Studio Adriaan Claerhout
Challenges such as limited space and the urgency for sustainability are prevalent in today’s construction landscape. The Periscope architecture concept offers innovative solutions that transform our perception of reality. Imagine experiencing breathtaking landscapes below the surface, as if at ground level.
This groundbreaking construction method enables building underground or underwater, avoiding the typical dreariness of basements or submerged spaces. It features a subterranean structure encased in a movable Periscope framework. While the main building remains fixed, the surrounding structure can be adjusted for different needs.
The film below serves as a manifesto film. It is an artwork that explores the possibilities of how periscope architecture can function as a gravity battery
Periscope plans
The plans of The Periscope draw inspiration from classical Roman and Palladian architecture. The layout is based on a multi-level square plan that integrates a variety of functions. At the heart of the structure lies a central circular patio featuring a majestic tree, which serves not only as a sculptural centerpiece but also as a source of natural light and ventilation for the subterranean spaces. This central void defines an architectural promenade that invites people to move through the house in a dynamic and engaging way.
Beneath the rising and descending mirror volumes of the periscope structure are expansive water surfaces. These act as natural mirrors, capturing and reflecting zenithal light and introducing fluid, moving reflections into the interior. In addition to their visual and atmospheric qualities, the water basins function as reservoirs for rainwater and contribute to the building’s natural cooling system.
Along the perimeter of the house, sunken gardens are concealed behind the mirrored moving structures. When the mirrors are lifted, these verdant pockets are revealed to the interior, adding unexpected depth and creating a moment of surprise. The lower mirrored sections of the periscope also contain cylindrical cutouts that house monumental sculptures. When the mirrors rise, these sculptures emerge theatrically, as if unveiled under a cloche — creating a powerful and almost mythical experience.
Level -1 contains the main living spaces, including the entrance, kitchen, dining area, and library.
Level -2 features a double-height living room, the gym, and all bedrooms. Wellness areas and a home cinema are tucked into the corner zones, offering privacy and comfort within the subterranean structure.
Periscope sections
The sectional drawings of the Periscope project illustrate the ingenious use of 45-degree contour mirrors that can be raised or lowered. These dynamic mirrors channel natural light and panoramic views deep into the subterranean living spaces, transforming them into bright, airy environments. Thanks to their bi-directional nature, the mirrors not only bring the outside world in—they also offer glimpses of the underground spaces to observers above ground, creating a continuous visual dialogue between interior and exterior.
Another central element revealed in the sections is the circular patio at the heart of the building. This open-air void plays a vital role in the design, flooding the interior with daylight and fresh air, and enhancing the spatial experience on all levels. Depending on the relative position of the upper and lower mirrors, the view of the surrounding landscape can be projected down to level -1 or even level -2, offering tailored connections to the exterior throughout the home.
Periscope mechanism
The Periscope consists of two mirrored parts set at a 45-degree angle, which can be independently raised to optimize lighting and views for the underground levels. These mirrors are bidirectional, offering not only reflections of the surrounding landscape but also unique views into the building’s interior from above ground, creating a dynamic visual dialogue between inside and out. This design allows natural light and scenic views to penetrate deep into the structure, making it a remarkable “space enhancer.”
Building below ground also brings several sustainability advantages. The earth around provides excellent insulation, leading to more stable indoor temperatures year-round. Additionally, constructing buildings partially or entirely underground reduces their visual impact on the environment.
The mobility of the mirrored parts surrounding the building serves a sustainability purpose too. They function as a gravity battery: during the day, the mirrors are elevated using solar-powered engines, and as the sun sets, they descend, enclosing the building and harnessing energy from the descending mass.
[ interior ]
Inside the periscope project
Visuals & Film by Studio Adriaan Claerhout
Hidden entirely beneath the earth’s surface, this unique residence is anything but dark or confined. An innovative system of adjustable mirrors, reminiscent of a periscope, rises above ground level to capture both sunlight and views of the surrounding landscape. These mirrors are precisely angled to reflect natural light deep into the interior, creating a vibrant and ever-changing atmosphere throughout the day. As they shift position, the mirrors continuously optimize the amount of light and scenery that enters the subterranean space, maintaining a strong visual connection with the outside world.
Despite its underground setting, the house feels anything but enclosed. A central patio, lush greenery, and a thoughtful lighting strategy bring vitality and openness to every room. A striking feature is the series of large sculptures placed in cylindrical cutouts in the lower mirrors. As these mirrors rise, the artworks are gradually unveiled — like treasures emerging from beneath a cloche — adding a dramatic theatrical aspect to the experience.
The interiors are crafted with a refined palette of wood-textured concrete and natural timber, lending the spaces a timeless elegance. Iconic pieces of design furniture further enhance the sense of sophistication. Along the corridor that frames the central courtyard, generous wall space has been designed to showcase large-scale art, turning the passageway into a curated gallery.
Greenery is woven seamlessly into both the interior and exterior architecture, reinforcing the home’s symbiotic relationship with nature. Encircling the structure, a protected outdoor zone creates a microclimate that softens extreme seasonal temperatures — cooler in summer, warmer in winter. Beneath the lower mirrors, water features serve dual purposes: they reflect light into the spaces below and provide areas for swimming and relaxation.
Inside the periscope project
Hidden entirely beneath the earth’s surface, this unique residence is anything but dark or confined. An innovative system of adjustable mirrors, reminiscent of a periscope, rises above ground level to capture both sunlight and views of the surrounding landscape. These mirrors are precisely angled to reflect natural light deep into the interior, creating a vibrant and ever-changing atmosphere throughout the day. As they shift position, the mirrors continuously optimize the amount of light and scenery that enters the subterranean space, maintaining a strong visual connection with the outside world.
Despite its underground setting, the house feels anything but enclosed. A central patio, lush greenery, and a thoughtful lighting strategy bring vitality and openness to every room. A striking feature is the series of large sculptures placed in cylindrical cutouts in the lower mirrors. As these mirrors rise, the artworks are gradually unveiled — like treasures emerging from beneath a cloche — adding a dramatic theatrical aspect to the experience.
The interiors are crafted with a refined palette of wood-textured concrete and natural timber, lending the spaces a timeless elegance. Iconic pieces of design furniture further enhance the sense of sophistication. Along the corridor that frames the central courtyard, generous wall space has been designed to showcase large-scale art, turning the passageway into a curated gallery.
Greenery is woven seamlessly into both the interior and exterior architecture, reinforcing the home’s symbiotic relationship with nature. Encircling the structure, a protected outdoor zone creates a microclimate that softens extreme seasonal temperatures — cooler in summer, warmer in winter. Beneath the lower mirrors, water features serve dual purposes: they reflect light into the spaces below and provide areas for swimming and relaxation.
Visuals & Film
by Studio Adriaan Claerhout
