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Circular Structure Crafted From Textured Concrete and Granite Columns for Collective Reflection

Authors:
Anita Nadeem, Umar Farooq, Anita Nadeem, Waqar Ahmad
Circular Structure Crafted From Textured Concrete and Granite Columns for Collective Reflection

Project in-detail

Crafted from textured concrete and granite columns, the memorial's circular form invites visitors into a contemplative space designed for reflection and engagement with historical narratives.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a circular configuration to symbolize unity and continuity among visitors.
02
Incorporates textured concrete to convey emotional depth and historical significance.
03
Features granite columns for structural integrity, reflecting resilience and permanence.
04
Integrates natural landscaping to enhance visitor interaction with the environment.
05
Offers a tunnel of memories that facilitates a contemplative transition towards reflection.

### Overview
The Balticway Memorial is situated in a designated area intended for reflection and contemplation. The design integrates symbolic elements with functional architecture, creating a space that engages visitors in a dialogue between the past, present, and future. This memorial seeks to honor historical narratives while fostering a deeper sense of human connection through its spatial organization and immersive experiences.

### Spatial Strategy
The memorial's design employs a circular motif to evoke inclusivity and continuity, featuring three interconnected cylinders. This configuration symbolizes unity and solidarity, aiming to enhance user experiences as visitors engage with themes of history and memory. Key features include an elevated circular space representing the present, a transitional node that guides movement toward reflective areas, and an underground Contemplation Centre that facilitates deeper connection and tranquility. The perceptual journey begins at the entrance, designed to invite visitors into a space conducive to introspection. A lower-level passage, termed the Tunnel of Memories, reinforces this journey with soft lighting that enhances the contemplative atmosphere and guides individuals toward personal reflection.

### Materiality
Material selection is critical in expressing the memorial's sensory and spatial characteristics. Concrete serves as the primary material, symbolizing permanence while its textured surfaces evoke the weight of historical memories. The use of granite for supporting columns reflects strength and durability, representing the resilience of the human spirit. Glass elements enhance visual connectivity, creating a dialogue with the surrounding environment, while steel provides structural integrity, symbolizing both strength and fluidity. Integration of natural elements, including greenery, fosters a relationship with nature and emphasizes themes of regeneration and continuity. These carefully chosen materials contribute to the architectural narrative, creating a poignant backdrop for contemplation and remembrance.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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