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Column-Forest Structure with Concrete and Glass for Remembrance in a Public Space

Authors:
Indrit Alushani, Marem Kushtova
Column-Forest Structure with Concrete and Glass for Remembrance in a Public Space

Project in-detail

Rising columns of concrete and glass create a forest-like structure that honors the unity of the Baltic states through a thoughtfully designed public memorial space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Columns are designed to resemble a forest, enhancing visitor interaction and reflection.
02
The layout connects three capital cities, symbolizing the Baltic Way's unity.
03
Incorporates extensive natural landscaping to blend seamlessly with the site.
04
Viewing platforms offer elevated perspectives of the surrounding landscape and memorial.
05
Colorful elements within the structure represent the cultural diversity of the Baltic states.

## Project Overview

Located in Tallinn, Estonia, the Baltic Way Memorial commemorates the peaceful protests that united the Baltic states on August 23, 1989. The memorial pays homage to the collective spirit of solidarity that characterized the Baltic Way, where approximately two million individuals formed a human chain spanning over 600 kilometers between the capitals of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

## Spatial Configuration and Engagement

The memorial incorporates three main parks—Püha Park, Daisy Park, and Rue Park—creating a landscaped environment that encourages visitor interaction. The design emphasizes a linear arrangement, with elevated tiers symbolizing the connection between cities. This tiered layout facilitates a sense of movement and engagement, capturing the dynamic character of the historical protest.

### Design Elements and Materiality

The design features a "Column Forest," characterized by slender, towering columns that evoke the metaphor of a forest, providing both structure and shaded areas for visitors. Elevated viewing platforms offer reflective spaces overlooking water, enhancing the emotional resonance of the site.

The materials used include concrete, which signifies permanence and strength; glass, allowing light to permeate the memorial space; wood in pathways and seating to introduce warmth; and steel for structural integrity. Colorful panels incorporated in the vertical elements symbolize the cultural vibrancy of the Baltic states. The design thoughtfully integrates existing trees, fostering a connection with the natural environment and enhancing the visitor experience through interactivity and reflection.

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

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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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