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Copper Reflections and Light Boxes in a Contemplative Memorial

Author:
Matias Román basualto
Copper Reflections and Light Boxes in a Contemplative Memorial

Project in-detail

With its copper surface reflecting light through strategically placed boxes, the memorial fosters contemplation of social inequities regarding natural resource distribution while creating an immersive space for public engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflects images of social injustices through dynamic light boxes.
02
Circular core design facilitates varied spatial experiences.
03
Copper material links the memorial directly to Chile’s economic history.
04
Vibrational elements enhance visitor interaction with the space.
05
Inner void promotes contemplation of resource distribution issues.

The WHISPERING COPPER MEMORIAL is located in Santiago, Chile. It focuses on the issue of natural resource distribution and its impact on social equality. The design reflects the need for fair access to resources such as copper, water, and land. This structure aims to spark conversations about these issues while fostering a sense of shared memory among visitors.

Circular Core and Dynamic Spatial Experience

The design incorporates a circular core intersected by an axis that changes in height. This variation in elevation creates interesting perspectives as people walk through the space. Changes in height offer different views of the inner void, encouraging visitors to think deeply about what the memorial represents. The architectural layout invites personal reflection and contemplation.

Visual Representation of Injustice

Light boxes are placed throughout the memorial, projecting images that highlight various social injustices. These light boxes illuminate the inner void, drawing attention to critical issues related to resource management. The shifting light provides a dynamic experience, enhancing the emotional impact of the space. Visitors are encouraged to interact visually and reflect on the societal challenges presented in the memorial.

Materiality and Sensory Experience

Copper plays an essential role in the design, linking the structure to the natural resources it represents. The choice of material underscores its significance in the context of Chile's economy and history. The semi-translucent skin of the structure captures and reflects light, creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors can feel the metallic vibrations underfoot, deepening their connection to the memorial's themes and engaging their senses as they explore the space.

As people walk through the memorial, they encounter the interplay of light on the copper surface. It creates a gentle reminder of the ongoing conversations about resource distribution and social equity, making the experience resonant and thought-provoking.

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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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