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Beige Travertine and White Marble Columbarium Embracing Serenity in Natural Landscapes

Author:
Xianwen Zheng
Beige Travertine and White Marble Columbarium Embracing Serenity in Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

A columbarium constructed from beige travertine and white marble integrates seamless pathways and a tranquil holy water chamber, offering a serene environment for remembrance within a landscaped cemetery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Columbarium constructed with beige travertine and white marble.
02
Incorporates a tranquil holy water chamber at the entrance.
03
Two distinct volumes enhance community and personal reflection.
04
Designed pathways use gravel for natural integration into the landscape.
05
Roof made of copper, intended to oxidize and blend with the forest.

The design presents a columbarium that serves as a memorial space, encouraging a connection between the living and the deceased. Located within a landscaped cemetery, the structure is designed to fit comfortably into its natural setting while providing a dignified space for reflection. The overall concept focuses on creating a peaceful sanctuary that emphasizes quiet contemplation and remembrance of those who have passed.

Columbarium Structure

The design features two distinct volumes known as Columbarium-A and Columbarium-B, which are positioned along the north and south sides of the site. This strategic arrangement fosters a sense of community, while also allowing for personal reflection. Columbarium-A includes 300 niches, and Columbarium-B contains 200 niches. This configuration emphasizes a modern approach to memorial architecture, blending individual experiences with a collective sense of memory.

Holy Water Chamber

At the entrance lies the holy water chamber, an essential space that transitions visitors from the outside world to the more solemn atmosphere inside. This chamber is dimly lit, with light filtering softly through skylights, creating a calm environment. Water flows continuously from a fountain, adding a soothing sound that encourages visitors to engage with their emotions. The ritual of washing hands helps to prepare mourners mentally for the experience of entering the columbarium.

Landscape Integration

A careful landscape strategy guides visitors through the site using well-defined pathways. A gravel road acts as the main circulation route, blending with the natural surroundings and contributing to a tranquil atmosphere. These pathways lead visitors on a journey toward reflection, encouraging a deep connection with nature and a moment of pause as they remember their loved ones.

Material Selection

Material choices are crucial in setting the tone of the columbarium. The exterior features porous beige travertine, which adds warmth and an element of history. In contrast, niches are made from white textured marble, providing a sense of purity and respect. The roof is covered in copper, which is intended to oxidize over time, allowing it to blend naturally with the forested backdrop. This thoughtful selection of materials enhances the overall experience of the space.

The design captures the essence of life and memory, connecting the living with the lasting legacies of those who have died. By creating a space that allows for both communal gathering and individual reflection, the columbarium encourages visitors to process their grief in an environment that honors memories and fosters serenity.

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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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