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Columns of Granite and Gabbro Supporting Communal Remembrance

Author:
Constantin Adomat
Columns of Granite and Gabbro Supporting Communal Remembrance

Project in-detail

Constructed from local granite and gabbro, the columbarium's distributed columns create an open environment that fosters shared remembrance and contemplation for families honoring their loved ones.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced granite and gabbro to enhance regional significance.
02
Features a grid system that promotes movement and interaction among visitors.
03
Incorporates a circular pathway that symbolizes the cycle of life.
04
Dedicated columns allow families to honor multiple urns collectively.
05
Natural light interacts dynamically with the design, creating shifting shadows.

The architectural design of a columbarium serves as a thoughtful space for the respectful storage of funerary urns, containing the remains of those who have passed away. This structure is located in a carefully chosen setting that aims to provide a peaceful environment for families and friends to honor their loved ones. The design concept emphasizes equality and connection, offering an alternative to traditional burial spaces by fostering interaction among visitors.

Distributed Layout

A grid system forms the basis of the design, organizing several columns that allow for easy movement throughout the space. This approach contrasts with conventional columbaria that often display solid walls lined with niches. The open arrangement of columns creates a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging meaningful connections among visitors while promoting a sense of community during moments of reflection and remembrance.

Pathway Integration

The design features pathways that guide individuals toward the columbarium, contributing to the overall experience. A circular path symbolizes the cycle of life, leading visitors gently toward the main structure. This flow aids in creating a meditative journey, where each step encourages contemplation. Seating areas along the walkways provide opportunities for visitors to pause, allowing time for quiet reflection amid the tranquil surroundings.

Material Selection

Locally sourced materials, including sandstone, granite, and gabbro from Latvia, play an essential role in the design. These materials were selected for their durability and aesthetic quality, linking the columbarium to its geographical context. Their natural appearance helps to create a sense of harmony with the environment. Additionally, the inscriptions and textures found on the stone enhance the memorial aspect, serving as physical reminders of the lives being honored.

Light and Shadow

The design considers how light interacts with the structure, creating interesting patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. As sunlight filters through the arrangement of columns, it casts shadows on the ground, adding depth to the space. This interplay enhances the experience for visitors, inviting reflection and providing a visual reminder of the memories associated with those interred within the columbarium.

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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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