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Bioluminescent Algae Panels and Photovoltaic Glass Reimagine Remembrance Space in Community Healing Environment

Authors:
Michael Ledbetter, Alireza Fatemi, Elmira Shojaei, Danielle Baker
Bioluminescent Algae Panels and Photovoltaic Glass Reimagine Remembrance Space in Community Healing Environment

Project in-detail

Bioluminescent algae panels and photovoltaic glass form an innovative memorial that engages visitors in reflection and healing through interactive elements and sustainable design while honoring the memory of past genocides.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bioluminescent algae panels illuminate the memorial at night, creating an ethereal visual experience.
02
Photovoltaic glass panels generate renewable energy to power site features and installations.
03
Interactive water features are designed to symbolize healing and continuity of life.
04
Ginkgo Biloba trees are integrated into the landscape, chosen for their historical significance and resilience.
05
Pavegen tiles convert foot traffic into electricity, emphasizing participatory engagement in sustainability.
The Last Genocide memorial is a contemporary architectural project located in Chinguacousy Park. It serves as a memorial dedicated to the remembrance of genocides, with an emphasis on healing, education, and community engagement. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability while fostering reflection on the tragedies of the past. The architectural composition combines a sphere constructed from innovative materials with surrounding natural elements, creating a space that is both contemplative and interactive.

At the heart of the memorial is a layered sphere, designed with a focus on visitor interaction. The structure is enveloped in an algae panel system that utilizes bioluminescent algae, allowing the memorial to glow at night while contributing to ecological sustainability. This interactive feature invites visitors to engage with the installation, providing a visceral connection to the themes of memory and hope. The sphere is anchored by a central column that serves both structural and functional purposes, linking various interactive components. Water features integrated into the design further enhance the sensory experience, symbolizing the ideas of healing and rebirth.

Unique Design Approaches

The Last Genocide project integrates various state-of-the-art sustainable technologies. Photovoltaic glass panels serve as the Solar Wall, harnessing sunlight to provide power for the site. The incorporation of Pavegen tiles, which convert kinetic energy from pedestrian footsteps into electricity, exemplifies an innovative approach to energy generation within the memorial context. This focus on sustainability reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship while engaging visitors in a participatory manner.

The choice of materials plays a significant role in the design's impact. The use of algae panels, stainless steel framing, and chiseled black granite conveys a contrast between the organic and the enduring. The translucence of acrylic panels adds a layer of visual complexity, allowing light to filter through the sphere and creating a dynamic atmosphere. Surrounding the memorial, Ginkgo Biloba trees were selected for their historical significance as symbols of resilience and healing, transforming the area into a restorative environment.

Interactive and Educational Aspects

The design encourages educational engagement through interactive elements. Informational content accessed via QR codes throughout the site promotes reflection on the historical context of genocides. The memorial serves not only as a space for remembrance but also as an educational resource, fostering dialogue and awareness among visitors. The careful integration of natural and architectural elements creates a cohesive environment that encourages visitors to contemplate the past while looking toward a more hopeful future.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the Last Genocide memorial, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shape this significant architectural project.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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