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Cement Base Supporting Glass and Steel Expressions of Unity and Resistance

Authors:
Arlenne Gil, Dianne Panton, Dan Sliter, Kyle Sheppard
Cement Base Supporting Glass and Steel Expressions of Unity and Resistance

Project in-detail

A cement plinth anchored by glass and steel elements captures the essence of unity and resistance, creating a meaningful space for reflection and commemoration of a pivotal historical event.
5 key facts about this project
01
A significant plinth structure conveys the weight of historical oppression.
02
Glass elements enhance visibility and foster transparency in the memorial's design.
03
Sculptural components symbolize the collective strength of unity against adversity.
04
Integrated exhibition space provides educational resources on the Baltic Way.
05
Dynamic bridge design promotes a sense of movement and connection to the waterfront.

### Overview
The Baltic Way Memorial is situated along the waterfront within an urban context that highlights its historical significance. It commemorates the August 23, 1989 event wherein approximately two million individuals formed a human chain across the Baltic States—Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania—as an act of unity against oppression. The design strategically incorporates themes of authority, unity, and resistance, reflecting the collective journey toward independence.

### Spatial Relationships and Interaction
The memorial's layout fosters an environment conducive to reflection and community engagement. The design includes pedestrian bridges that ensure safe access across various areas, enhancing circulation within the site. Landscaping elements create inviting green spaces that encourage gatherings and contemplation, emphasizing the memorial's connection to its historical narrative. The adaptable spatial qualities allow visitors to experience the significance of the memorial while engaging in dialogue.

### Materiality and Function
Materials were selected to reinforce the memorial's themes and enhance its aesthetic. The predominant use of concrete in the plinth conveys permanence and strength, serving as a stark reminder of the oppressive past. Glass features within the unity and resistance components introduce transparency and lightness, symbolizing hope. Steel elements provide structural flexibility while echoing industrial influences relevant to the region. Additionally, the design incorporates various programmatic spaces, such as exhibition areas, cafés, and a souvenir shop, to enhance visitor experience and promote educational engagement with the memorial's context.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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