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Charred Wooden Facades and Concrete Forms Creating A Reflective Memorial Space

Authors:
Henry Skates, Dindul Dadi
Charred Wooden Facades and Concrete Forms Creating A Reflective Memorial Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden facades and robust concrete forms, the memorial embodies a contemporary interpretation of resilience, fostering a space for reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength and eco-friendliness.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces that engage visitors.
04
Integrates landscaped pathways connecting communal areas with the memorial for accessibility.
05
Employs natural light strategically to enrich the visitor experience throughout the day.

### Project Overview

The Two Towers memorial is situated near the Baltic Sea and Rigas University, intended to honor the historical significance of the Baltic Chain, recognized by UNESCO as a pivotal non-violent event in the region's history. The design engages with the geological context while aiming to evoke reflection and remembrance, creating a dialogue between past struggles and future aspirations.

### Architectural Expression

The two towers are constructed in an angular form, symbolizing unity and resilience. Their design resembles raised human hands, inviting interaction and engagement with the narratives of freedom and solidarity. The upper sections feature intentional splits that foster a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, allowing for varied visual experiences throughout the day. Local materials such as concrete, steel, and glass were selected for their durability and compatibility with the historical context, ensuring that the structure not only serves as a memorial but also integrates into the existing urban landscape.

### User Engagement and Environmental Integration

The exhibition spaces within the towers are designed to maximize natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that enhances visitor experience. Flexible layouts accommodate diverse installations and presentations, facilitating an engaging interaction with the memorial's narrative. Surrounding the towers, landscaped areas include lawns and trees, enhancing the setting's serenity and providing spaces for contemplation. A thoughtfully designed walkway connects the memorial to both the university and the waterfront, promoting accessibility and community engagement while reinforcing the relationship between nature and architecture.

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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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