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Circular Space Embracing Nature with Concrete and Granite Elements

Author:
Vera Angelico
Circular Space Embracing Nature with Concrete and Granite Elements
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A centrally located fire bowl and porous curved walls highlight the integration of light and nature within a circular structure designed as a memorial, encouraging reflection and remembrance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design promotes unity and continuity in the memorial space.
02
Central fire bowl symbolizes the cycle of life with LED lighting.
03
Porous walls enhance natural light and integration with the landscape.
04
Use of concrete and granite offers durability and a sustainable approach.
05
Native plant species are incorporated to create a tranquil environment.

The Columbarium titled "Sacred Eternity" serves as a place for remembrance and reflection on the connections between life and death. Located within a thoughtfully designed landscape, the structure allows visitors to find solace amid their memories. The overall design concept revolves around the idea that life and death are part of a continuous cycle, intertwining human experience with the natural world.

CIRCULAR FORMATIONS

Circular shapes are central to the design, symbolizing unity and continuity. These forms encourage movement and exploration while creating a calm atmosphere. Visitors can navigate the space along winding pathways, which lead them through moments of reflection and remembrance.



ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS

Porous curved walls are a key feature of the Columbarium, allowing light to enter the interior spaces. This natural light adds to the feeling of tranquility and openness. The walls do more than just define the areas; they also provide views of the surrounding landscape, helping to connect the structure with its environment.



SYMBOLIC REPRESENTATIONS

The design incorporates four classical elements—air, earth, fire, and water—each symbolizing different aspects of life. A fire bowl, positioned at the center of the layout, serves as a focal point, representing the cycle of existence. The bowl uses LED lighting to simulate a flame, reinforcing a spiritual theme while simplifying maintenance.



MATERIALITY AND LANDSCAPING

Concrete is used for the walls that hold the niches, offering a strong and sustainable choice. Granite has been selected for the memorial shelves, providing a solid surface for displaying the names of those honored. The landscape is designed with native plant species, enhancing the connection to the local environment and promoting a peaceful setting that invites contemplation.



The interplay of light and shadow along the curved walls adds a dynamic quality to the space. Each moment of the day brings new patterns that invite visitors to pause and reflect, enriching the experience of memory within this commemorative environment.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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