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Circular Columbarium with White Concrete in a Forest Setting

Authors:
Zinan Xiong, Lanhao Liao, Jingyi Wang, Meijun Lin
Circular Columbarium with White Concrete in a Forest Setting
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Set within a serene forest, the circular columbarium built with white concrete offers an intimate space for reflection and remembrance, seamlessly integrating nature and honoring the memory of the deceased.
5 key facts about this project
01
The columbarium features approximately 500 niches arranged in five layered sections.
02
The structure is entirely underground, enhancing privacy and intimacy for visitors.
03
A circular design promotes a sense of unity and continuity throughout the memorial space.
04
Visitors navigate through a narrow pathway that transitions into the underground realm.
05
The use of white concrete creates a distinct visual identity amidst the natural setting.

"The Ring for Memorial" aims to establish a reflective space devoted to honoring the deceased while enhancing the experiences of those who visit. Located in a wooded setting filled with tall trees and nearby traditional cemeteries, the design addresses the relationship between life and death. The concept focuses on creating an inviting environment that promotes reflection, remembrance, and connection with nature.

Design Idea

The design includes a circular layout for the columbarium, which strengthens the sense of unity among its components. This arrangement encourages meaningful interaction with the memorial space. It serves as a symbol of life’s continuity and collective memory. Each element is purposely placed to help visitors think about their connections to those who have passed away.

Underground Experience

The main structure is positioned underground to limit its visibility above ground. This choice enhances privacy and creates an intimate setting that invites quiet contemplation. Within this space, gentle lighting contributes to a calming atmosphere where visitors can reflect and find peace. A dark, narrow pathway leads into the underground area, signaling entry into a serene environment. This transition supports the memorial's purpose as a place for introspection and remembrance.

Columbarium Wall

The wall of niches includes about 500 spaces organized into five layers. This setup ensures that each niche is accessible and visible. The design connects the two ends of the wall in a continuous form, creating a prominent landmark on the grounds. This layout encourages exploration, allowing visitors to engage with the memorial as they walk through it. Each niche serves as a personal connection point, promoting individual reflection alongside communal memory.

Color and Feel

White concrete features prominently in the design, giving the memorial a distinctive visual identity. This material interacts with the surrounding natural elements, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere. The way light falls on the white surfaces enhances the overall feel of the space, allowing a blend of serenity and respect. Visitors experience different moods as sunlight shifts throughout the day.

Every aspect of "The Ring for Memorial" focuses on the connection between the living and the dead. It blends nature and architecture to create a setting that supports personal reflection. The design seeks to make every visit a journey into contemplation, allowing individuals to remember and honor those who have passed.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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