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Circulation of Memory Through Black and White Space in Scotland

Author:
Burtea Alexandra-elena
Circulation of Memory Through Black and White Space in Scotland

Project in-detail

Black and white spaces enhance the dialogue between historical oppression and contemporary reflection in a design that serves as an educational center in Scotland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflects the historical context of 16th-century persecutions.
02
Integrates circulation spaces that symbolize state and church interactions.
03
Employs charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic and protective qualities.
04
Designed to incite reflection on gender and class oppression.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.

The design is located in Scotland and draws inspiration from the historical context of the persecutions that took place in the 16th century. Set against a backdrop where the State and the Church collaborated to regulate and control society, the design aims to evoke a sense of historical memory. It reflects themes of power dynamics, oppression, and societal division, creating a space that encourages reflection on the past.

Conceptual Framework

At the core of the design is the exploration of how the State and the Church interacted with one another. The project examines the historical narrative of the witch hunts and highlights the persistent class and gender divisions that resulted from these events. By organizing space thoughtfully, the design guides visitors through a complex web of historical power relationships, promoting contemplation on their implications for contemporary society.

Spatial Organization

The layout includes circulation spaces designed to facilitate movement. These areas illustrate the interactions between those in power and those who were oppressed. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the significant historical moments that occurred at this site. The arrangement promotes a deeper understanding of the societal structures that contributed to ongoing injustices and inequities.

Representation of Oppression

A critical aspect of the design addresses the reproductive control imposed on women during this period. By highlighting this issue, the design serves as a commentary on the patriarchal systems that developed throughout history. The focus on class and gender division enhances the narrative dimension of the space, inviting discussions about how these themes continue to resonate today.

Symbolic Features

The project incorporates symbolic elements that echo the oppressive nature of governance in the past. These details capture the experiences of marginalized groups, enriching the educational experience for all who visit. Each feature adds a layer of meaning to the design, enabling visitors to engage more fully with the historical context. The architecture ultimately serves as a platform for storytelling, fostering a deeper connection to the lessons of history.

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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

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