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Corten Steel Fins and Curved Form Create a Memorial Reflecting Historical Unity

Authors:
Gerson Figueroa, Sergio Córdova
Corten Steel Fins and Curved Form Create a Memorial Reflecting Historical Unity

Project in-detail

With its Corten steel fins that symbolize unity and a gently curving form designed to foster community interaction, the memorial integrates historical significance into a multifunctional public space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel fins symbolize human connection and unity in their design.
02
The memorial's curved form facilitates natural movement and engagement.
03
Large glass panels enhance light and visibility, connecting indoors with the outdoors.
04
Landscaping is integrated to create reflective spaces within the memorial.
05
Natural ventilation strategies optimize comfort and sustainability in the building.
The Baltic Way Memorial in Riga, Latvia, offers a thoughtful architectural response to a significant historical event—the peaceful human chain that united the Baltic states in 1989. This project serves as both a memorial and a community space, effectively merging remembrance with public engagement. The design integrates various functions, including exhibition areas, a café, and open plazas, allowing diverse uses while fostering connections among visitors.

The architectural approach emphasizes a sculptural quality, symbolizing hands reaching out to each other, a direct reference to the unity demonstrated during the Baltic Way. The memorial features a gently curving form with vertical wooden fins, enhancing both the visual impact and associative meanings. These elements not only contribute to the aesthetic quality of the memorial but also facilitate a sense of movement and participation.

Innovative material selection distinguishes this project. Corten steel is utilized for its aesthetic and physical properties, allowing the structure to develop a weathered appearance over time, symbolizing endurance. Reinforced concrete provides necessary structural stability while allowing creative freedom in the architectural form. Large glass panels increase natural light, connecting interior spaces with the surrounding environment and inviting the public in.

Unique to this project is its dual purpose; it acts as a living memorial that encourages community interaction. The design incorporates natural ventilation strategies, optimizing energy efficiency while enhancing occupant comfort. The landscaping surrounding the memorial is carefully designed to facilitate reflection and social gathering, further enriching the user experience.

The incorporation of flexible spaces within the design promotes various activities and events, thus transforming the memorial into an active part of the community life in Riga. The thoughtful arrangement encourages visitors to engage with the historic significance of the site, while also serving day-to-day needs.

To gain deeper insights into the Baltic Way Memorial project, including the specific architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation. This exploration will provide valuable context and understanding of the design's functional and symbolic elements.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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