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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Spaces for Communal Reflection

Author:
Xuanru Liu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Spaces for Communal Reflection

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive concrete surfaces, the design creates a reflective space that fosters community engagement and honors the complexities of remembrance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint while providing structural support.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that allows for expansive interior spaces and natural light.
04
Designed with flexible pathways to facilitate personal reflection and community engagement.
05
Integrates lush greenery within the structure, promoting a connection to nature and enhancing the memorial experience.
The architectural project "Exist Side by Side" is located in Kensington, Melbourne, Australia. This design serves as a multifaceted approach to death, memorialization, and communal reflection. It seeks to create an environment conducive to engaging conversations about mortality, providing spaces for individual reflection and collective remembrance. The architecture envisions a departure from traditional memorials, promoting an inclusive atmosphere that embraces diverse cultural perspectives on death.

The primary function of "Exist Side by Side" is to facilitate a dialogue around death within an architectural framework. The layout consists of interconnected spaces designed for public engagement, personal contemplation, and the articulation of individual stories. It incorporates areas for gathering, memory installations, and pathways that guide visitors through the experience. This organization of space is aimed at enhancing interactions between users and the environment.

One of the unique aspects of this design is its sensitivity to cultural dimensions associated with grief and mourning. By fostering a space that welcomes diverse practices and beliefs, the project reflects a modern understanding of death as an integral part of life. The use of various materials, such as concrete, glass, wood, and steel, not only ensures structural integrity but also creates an inviting atmosphere. Concrete grounds the project, while glass enhances visibility and connection to nature, reinforcing the theme of openness. Wood adds warmth to the otherwise stark aesthetic, making the space feel more humanized.

The circulation pathways designed within "Exist Side by Side" further distinguish it from conventional memorials. These pathways are intentionally fluid, allowing for exploration and movement throughout the area. The inclusion of ramps and accessible routes emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the space comfortably. Natural light is another critical design component, with strategically placed openings that foster a constant interaction between the interior and the outdoors, thus creating dynamic visual experiences.

In summary, "Exist Side by Side" exemplifies a thoughtful integration of architecture and communal interaction regarding death. The unique design approach combines sensitivity to cultural contexts with a focus on individual narratives. The choice of materials and the spatial organization serve to reinforce the project’s overarching themes of remembrance and dialogue. Readers interested in a comprehensive understanding of this project are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs for deeper insights into its innovative concepts and execution.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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