Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cement and Glass Reflection of Unity in a Community-Centric Commemoration Space

Authors:
Colin Chan, Jermaine Santos Bunoan, Sherlin Lin
Cement and Glass Reflection of Unity in a Community-Centric Commemoration Space

Project in-detail

Crafted from a blend of concrete and glass, the memorial thoughtfully acknowledges the Baltic Way's legacy through reflective spaces and landscaped gardens designed for community gathering and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique blend of concrete and glass to enhance visibility and engagement with the surrounding environment.
02
Features reflective water elements that symbolize unity and contemplation within the memorial space.
03
Landscaped gardens showcase native flora, emphasizing the connection to the region's cultural landscape.
04
The design allows for flexible exhibition spaces that cater to diverse community educational programs.
05
Utilizes an open gathering area that encourages communal activities and public discourse, reinforcing its function as a community hub.
The Baltic Way Memorial is an architectural project designed to honor the significant historical event known as the Baltic Way, where citizens of the Baltic states united in a peaceful demonstration for independence from Soviet rule in 1989. The memorial is situated in a thoughtfully chosen location that connects the past with the contemporary urban environment, thereby creating a space that is both reflective and inviting.

This project represents more than just a commemorative structure; it embodies the spirit of unity, resilience, and cultural identity intrinsic to the Baltic peoples. The architecture of the memorial serves a dual function: it commemorates a pivotal moment in history while also providing a space for public engagement and community gatherings. Visitors are encouraged to traverse the site, reflecting on the values of freedom and solidarity that the original protest epitomized.

Key elements of the Baltic Way Memorial include the entrance, the Baltic Garden, the Grand Stand, exhibition spaces, and the Memorial Square. The entrance is designed to be prominent and welcoming, drawing visitors into the memorial and inviting them to embark on a personal journey of reflection. This gateway embodies the significance of accessibility in memorial design, allowing all individuals to engage with the space meaningfully.

The Baltic Garden is a central feature of the memorial, offering a green oasis that is richly connected to the cultural heritage of the Baltic region. Native plants and scenic pathways are integrated into this landscape, promoting a harmonious relationship with nature and emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship. Visitors can experience the serenity of the garden while contemplating the shared history of the Baltic nations, making it an integral part of the memorial’s overall character.

The Grand Stand is another pivotal component. Serving as both a memorial and a functional gathering space, it features sloped seating that allows visitors to sit, reflect, or partake in communal events. This design approach fosters an inclusive atmosphere, creating opportunities for dialogue and interaction among people who come to honor the memory of those who fought for freedom.

Exhibition spaces within the memorial provide an opportunity for education and storytelling, reflecting on the events surrounding the Baltic Way. These areas are designed to be flexible and inviting, allowing for diverse educational experiences that cater to various audiences. The thoughtful integration of these spaces further enhances the memorial’s purpose as a site for learning and remembrance.

At the center of the memorial lies the Memorial Square, which serves as the heart of the project. This open area facilitates community gatherings and provides a clear sightline to other elements of the memorial, reinforcing the unity theme that the project embodies. The design encourages visitors to congregate, interact, and actively participate in the remembrance process, further solidifying the relationship between the memorial and the community it serves.

The materials selected for the Baltic Way Memorial play a significant role in its overall design narrative. Concrete, glass, steel, and wood are among the primary materials used to create a lasting and impactful structure. Concrete is used for its durability, signifying the strength and stability associated with the ideals of independence. Glass elements facilitate interaction between the indoor and outdoor spaces, symbolizing transparency and openness. Steel provides the structural framework, embodying resilience, while wood introduces warmth, making the environment inviting and approachable.

The design of the Baltic Way Memorial employs unique approaches that enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. The landscape architecture harmonizes with the architectural elements, creating a seamless experience for visitors as they navigate through the site. Additionally, the incorporation of various types of spaces—both intimate and expansive—allows for multiple forms of engagement, whether through quiet reflection or vibrant community events.

By emphasizing these design elements, the Baltic Way Memorial transcends the conventional boundaries of a static memorial. It invites exploration and interaction while facilitating a deeper understanding of the historical significance it represents. Readers interested in understanding the architectural nuances of this project can delve into the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain further insights and appreciation for its well-considered architectural ideas. Exploring this project presentation will illuminate how architecture can serve both commemorative and community functions, bridging the gap between past struggles and present aspirations.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy