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Brass Façade and Reflective Water Features in a Memorial for Historical Resilience

Author:
Nai cheong Cheong
Brass Façade and Reflective Water Features in a Memorial for Historical Resilience

Project in-detail

A brass façade harmonizes with reflective water features, creating a contemplative space that honors historical resilience while serving as a memorial for the victims of past conflicts.
5 key facts about this project
01
A brass façade integrates with the structure, providing a durable, reflective surface that symbolizes resilience.
02
Reflective water features enhance the memorial's atmosphere, inviting contemplation and emotional connection.
03
The design incorporates Vastu Shastra principles, aligning the central tower toward the east for spiritual significance.
04
Ascending towers represent the timeline of conflict, visually narrating the history of the past atrocities.
05
Granite is used for the base, serving as a nod to permanence and grounding the memorial in its historical context.
The Last Genocide Memorial is an architectural project designed to commemorate the victims of historical conflicts and genocides. The design thoughtfully integrates elements that evoke remembrance while facilitating public engagement. The memorial seeks to create a space for reflection, understanding, and acknowledgment of past atrocities, functioning as a place for both mourning and education on historical events, particularly the Ellam Wars I-IV that spanned from 1983 to 2009.

The architectural layout comprises a series of ascending towers, each representing different phases of conflict. This verticality emphasizes the narrative of loss and resilience, while also establishing a skyline that prompts contemplation. Water features interspersed within the site serve as symbols of memory and sorrow, inviting visitors to connect emotionally with the memorial's intent. Additionally, the integration of materials such as brass, granite, and reinforced concrete creates a tactile relationship with the memorial, adding to its strength and durability.

Innovative Design Features

One distinct aspect of this memorial is its use of spaces that prompt emotional engagement. The angular forms of the towers contrast with the surrounding landscape, emphasizing the harsh realities of conflict. The architecture does not shy away from these themes; instead, it embraces them, creating a dialogue between the built environment and the historical narrative it represents. Vastu Shastra principles guide the orientation of the memorial, aligning the central tower towards the east to symbolize new beginnings and hope despite the subject matter.

The interplay between solid and void is another noteworthy design strategy. The strategic placement of water features enhances the overall atmosphere of the memorial, introducing a calming element that tempers the weight of the structure's purpose. Visitors are led along pathways that encourage reflection, weaving through the memorial while experiencing its varying heights and forms. This immersive experience is central to the architectural vision.

Architectural Integrity and Materiality

The Last Genocide Memorial employs materials that are both culturally significant and functionally appropriate. Brass is featured prominently in the building's exterior, linking the design to a rich historical context while conveying a sense of permanence. Granite, used in the base, provides stability and grounding, reflecting the weight of memory. Reinforced concrete supports the structural integrity necessary for the towers and water features, ensuring longevity while allowing for creative freedom in design.

The use of these materials also reflects a commitment to sustainability, as both brass and granite can withstand the test of time while minimizing maintenance needs. The architectural design thereby communicates its intent to honor history through durable and meaningful choices.

For a deeper understanding of The Last Genocide Memorial, readers are encouraged to explore the project’s architectural plans, sections, and designs. Insight into the project’s goals can be gained through an examination of its architectural ideas and how they converge to create a meaningful memorial experience.
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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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