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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Panels Integrate with a Community-Centric Landscape Memorial

Author:
Ankur Sharma
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Panels Integrate with a Community-Centric Landscape Memorial

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a seamless connection to its natural environment while serving as a community-centric memorial that honors historical significance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and environmental integration.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that reflects the historical human chain.
03
Integrates a circular water feature promoting local biodiversity.
04
Includes informational decals on glass panels for visitor education.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
The Gateway of Kurgi is an architectural design project situated in Kurgi, Latvia. This structure functions as both a commemorative monument and a recreational space, designed to honor a pivotal historical event while also engaging visitors with the surrounding natural landscape. The design emphasizes unity, reflecting the human chain formed by citizens across the Baltics in 1989.

The project features a distinct structural form characterized by a sweeping arc, representing the aforementioned human chain. This architectural choice creates a dynamic visual relationship with the environment and serves multiple functions, including observation, education, and interaction with nature. The primary materials used in the construction include timber panels for the walkway, steel frames for structural integrity, glass panels for transparency, concrete for foundational elements, and adhesives for assembly.

Distinctive Features

The Gateway of Kurgi incorporates several design elements that set it apart from conventional structures. The water circle positioned beneath the arch serves as both an ecological habitat and a resting area for visitors, promoting biodiversity and encouraging outdoor engagement. This integration of natural elements within the architecture demonstrates a commitment to sustainability while enhancing visitor experience.

Another unique aspect is the observation tower, which elevates the user experience by providing various vantage points of the landscape. Accessed via semi-circular staircases, the tower offers an immersive interaction with the site and reinforces the connection between the monument and its surroundings. The incorporation of informational decals on glass panels further enhances the educational aspect of the design, offering context about the landscape and the historical event it commemorates.

Architectural Interactions

The Gateway's design prioritizes interaction with its environment and the community. By incorporating multifunctional spaces that accommodate educational programs and public gatherings, the architecture encourages socialization and fosters a sense of shared cultural identity. The structure’s lighting design further enhances its usability, providing visibility during night hours and transforming the monument into a landmark feature in Kurgi.

This project effectively merges architectural expression with ecological sensitivity, utilizing material choices that align with its purpose and context. The seamless integration of practical functions with a meaningful narrative allows the Gateway of Kurgi to resonate with visitors on multiple levels.

For a more in-depth exploration of the project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, readers are encouraged to review the complete presentation of the Gateway of Kurgi.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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