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Circular Reflections in Light and Water at a Memorial Space

Author:
Tang Mingjun
Circular Reflections in Light and Water at a Memorial Space
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The interplay of natural light and reflective water in this circular memorial space creates a tranquil environment for contemplation, offering a distinctive approach to honoring loved ones through its thoughtfully segmented landscape and underground columbarium.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design symbolizes the cycle of life and contributes to emotional reflection.
02
Integration of natural light enhances the underground columbarium's atmosphere.
03
Above-ground landscape provides a tranquil respite for visitors.
04
Distinct areas accommodate both individual and communal remembrance.
05
Water feature serves as a dynamic element, reflecting changing light.

The design integrates themes of life and death within a carefully planned environment. Located in a peaceful landscape, the structure serves as both a resting place and a memorial. Using the circle as a central symbol, the design reflects the cycle of life and aims to create an atmosphere that encourages reflection and connection.

Design Concept

The concept focuses on circulation, employing circular forms to represent continuity and the idea of reincarnation. This approach creates a space where visitors can engage in introspection and emotional processing. By merging the realities of life and death, the design fosters a setting that allows for contemplation and remembrance.

Spatial Organization

The layout consists of two main areas: the above-ground landscape and the underground columbarium. The above-ground portion is designed to be a calm landscape where visitors can pause and enjoy the surroundings. This area emphasizes a connection with nature, helping to ease the sadness that often accompanies visits to memorials.

In contrast, the underground columbarium acts as a place for remembrance. It is organized into public and family sections to meet varying worship practices. This configuration supports different types of memorial services and gatherings, enhancing its role as a community space for honoring loved ones.

Light and Atmosphere

Consideration of light and atmosphere connects the two spaces. Natural light filters through the design, illuminating the underground area and reflecting off a central pool. This feature creates an ever-changing environment, where light and shadow interact in ways that enhance calmness. The inclusion of nature in the design is meant to provide comfort during meaningful moments of mourning.

As sunlight streams in, it casts soft patterns on the surfaces below. This invites visitors to pause and reflect in a peaceful atmosphere. The circular shapes in the architecture encourage visitors to contemplate life’s connections and the acceptance of loss.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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