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Concrete Column and Steel Bracing in a Reflective Space for Community Remembrance

Authors:
Zicci Zhou, Jessica Liu
Concrete Column and Steel Bracing in a Reflective Space for Community Remembrance

Project in-detail

Rising 5.5 meters into the skyline, the concrete column paired with a cage-like steel structure invites contemplation in a reflective space dedicated to community remembrance and healing.
5 key facts about this project
01
The memorial features a central concrete column that rises 5.5 meters, serving as a focal point for reflection.
02
The integration of LED light strips in the design enhances the ambiance during nighttime visits.
03
A cage-like steel structure metaphorically represents confinement experienced by victims, adding depth to the narrative.
04
The use of white brick pavers creates a bright pathway that contrasts with the somber themes of the site.
05
The asymmetrical form of the memorial mimics the shape of a poppy flower, symbolizing fragility and resilience.
The Last Genocide Memorial represents a profound architectural exploration of memory, trauma, and healing. This project is thoughtfully designed to serve as a space of remembrance, inviting visitors to reflect on the painful legacies of genocide while encouraging dialogue about resilience and hope for the future. The architectural form speaks to the complexities of human experience and the dual nature of remembrance—both a somber acknowledgment of loss and a testament to the enduring human spirit.

Central to the design is a towering concrete column that reaches 5.5 meters into the sky. This monumental feature serves as a focal point, symbolizing strength and resilience amid the shadows of history. It is accompanied by a delicately integrated lighting strategy that employs LED light strips, enhancing the experience of the memorial at night. This illumination not only highlights the structural contours but also evokes a sense of awakening and introspection, allowing visitors to engage with the space on multiple levels.

The choice of materials plays an essential role in achieving the memorial's intended effect. White brick pavers form the primary pathway, inviting visitors to walk through and interact with the memorial. The brightness of the materials contrasts with the serious themes of the project, creating a balance that allows for reflection without overwhelming the senses. Each step taken on these pavers signifies a journey through remembrance, reinforcing the significance of the memorial as a place for personal and communal engagement.

The design incorporates a cage-like steel structure that envelops parts of the memorial, serving as a metaphor for confinement and the struggles endured by victims of genocide. This structural element, supported by steel bracing, conveys unity and strength, implying that while the past has left its mark, there is a collective resolve to remember and move forward. The asymmetrical form of the memorial is reminiscent of a poppy flower, symbolizing fragility and the transient nature of life, further deepening the connection between nature, memory, and healing.

The spatial dynamics of the memorial encourage a non-linear flow, reflecting the chaotic nature of memory and the multifaceted experience of trauma. Visitors move through various spaces that unfold in unexpected ways, engaging them in a manner that mirrors the unpredictable journey of recollection. This thoughtful arrangement fosters immersion, allowing visitors to not only observe but also participate in the collective narrative of loss and remembrance.

What sets this project apart is its ability to encourage community interaction and engagement. The open layout facilitates gatherings, educational events, and remembrance ceremonies, positioning the memorial as a living tribute that actively promotes dialogue and education around the themes of genocide and healing. This emphasis on community connection underscores the project’s relevance, allowing it to serve as an important touchstone for reflection and discussion among diverse audiences.

The Last Genocide Memorial exemplifies the power of architecture to convey complex narratives while facilitating personal and collective engagement. It thoughtfully addresses the challenge of creating a space that honors memory while fostering a hopeful vision for the future. To explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that underpin this project further, readers are encouraged to delve into the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its significance and impact.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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