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Canopy Structures and Water Features Crafted from Reclaimed Timber in a Tranquil Forest Setting

Authors:
Marco Sorrentino, Leone Spita, Chiara Mobius, Jacopo Mannello
Canopy Structures and Water Features Crafted from Reclaimed Timber in a Tranquil Forest Setting

Project in-detail

Elevated canopy structures of reclaimed timber seamlessly integrate with serene water features, creating immersive spaces for reflection and communal remembrance within a tranquil forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates elevated canopy structures that serve as both shelters and focal points in the forest landscape.
02
Utilizes reclaimed timber to emphasize sustainability and environmental responsibility.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity while blending with surroundings.
04
Includes integrated water features that promote tranquility and support local ecology.
05
Offers circular seating arrangements designed to foster intimate gatherings and communal reflection.
The architectural project “Memories Under the Trees” develops a thoughtful landscape within a forest environment, presenting a unique interpretation of memorial spaces that balances nature with human reflection and remembrance. This project serves an essential role by inviting visitors to engage with their memories while fostering a connection to the serene landscape surrounding them. The design represents a conscious effort to dissolve the boundaries between built forms and the organic elements of the forest, resulting in an environment that highlights the natural beauty while providing spaces for contemplation.

At the heart of this project is the commitment to creating an immersive experience. The architecture of “Memories Under the Trees” includes thoughtfully designed pathways that meander through the forest. These paths encourage visitors to move rhythmically through the space, promoting a sense of journey that parallels personal experiences surrounding memory and loss. The layout features various nooks and seating arrangements, allowing individuals to find quiet spots for reflection or engage with others who may be sharing similar experiences. This dynamic of solitude and communal interaction enriches the experience, positioning the site as more than just a place for mourning, but also as a venue for shared support and remembrance.

The unique design approach emphasizes a harmonious coexistence with the environment, where the architecture appears as an extension of the forest itself. One of the key features is the incorporation of "umbrella trees," elevated structures that mimic the natural forms of forest canopies. These canopies serve not only as shelters but also as focal points within the landscape, creating a dialogue between human-made elements and the natural world. Through the use of natural wood, concrete, glass, and steel, the design maintains sustainability while ensuring longevity and resilience in the face of environmental factors.

Integral to the project is the "Chamber of Memories," a specialized area dedicated to personal reflection. This component is thoughtfully organized to foster intimacy, with circular seating and the gentle sound of nearby water features inviting contemplation. The design acknowledges the importance of sensory experiences, which can evoke powerful memories and emotions, heightening the overall impact of the space. The emphasis on water elements further exemplifies a commitment to nature, integrating ecological practices that enhance the ambiance within the site.

Another significant aspect of “Memories Under the Trees” is its reimagined approach to burial spaces. Rather than presenting a stark contrast to the natural landscape, the project integrates the cemetery design within the forest, allowing memorials to blend organically with the surroundings. This creates a respectful and tranquil atmosphere that honors both life and death, allowing visitors to celebrate their memories in a space that feels alive and connected to nature.

The forward-thinking architecture provides solutions that are sensitive to sustainability, including features such as water collection systems that promote ecological balance. The combination of durable materials ensures that the project will endure over time while requiring minimal maintenance. The careful selection of materials—concrete for structural elements, glass for open, light-filled spaces, steel for structural integrity, and natural wood for warmth—demonstrates an understanding of both aesthetic appeal and functional resilience.

Overall, “Memories Under the Trees” stands as a comprehensive architectural project that seamlessly integrates the principles of design with the emotional nuances of memory and commemoration. The project's thoughtful approach elevates it beyond conventional designs, creating an environment that is engaging, reflective, and thoughtfully synchronized with its location. For those interested in further exploring this innovative concept, delving into the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the effective strategies and ideas that define this project. The opportunity to engage with the details of the project promises to enhance understanding and appreciation of its architectural narrative.
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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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