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Corten Steel Structures and Reflective Water Features in a Commemorative Memorial Design

Authors:
Tze Kang Wesley Fong, Bernadette Rui Ying Wee
Corten Steel Structures and Reflective Water Features in a Commemorative Memorial Design
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A sunken plaza adorned with Corten steel and reflective water features creates a contemplative space in Riga, commemorating a pivotal moment in Baltic history through thoughtful design and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Corten steel for both structural integrity and aesthetic resonance with the local landscape.
02
Incorporates reflective water features that enhance the contemplative atmosphere of the memorial.
03
Features a sunken plaza, creating an intimate space for visitors to engage with the memorial context.
04
Pathways are designed to evoke the historical human chain, symbolizing unity and movement.
05
Natural landscaping elements blend seamlessly with built structures, promoting environmental harmony.

## Overview
Located in Riga, Latvia, the Baltic Way Memorial commemorates the 1989 Baltic Way movement, where a significant portion of the population from the Baltic states participated in a peaceful demonstration advocating for freedom. The design of the memorial aims to honor this historical event while encouraging reflection on themes of unity and resilience.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout of the memorial is organized to create an immersive experience for visitors. It features a series of circular pathways that guide users through distinct areas designed for both reflection and interaction. The entrance serves as a communal gathering space enhanced by benches and exhibition areas, inviting dialogue about the site’s history. As users navigate through the main pathways, the flowing forms symbolize movement and inclusivity, while the sunken memorial area offers a tranquil environment for contemplation, complemented by water features that enhance the atmosphere. Strategically placed viewing platforms further engage visitors by providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, emphasizing connections between the past and present.

### Materiality
A deliberate selection of materials underpins the memorial's design, each chosen for their symbolic and practical implications. Concrete is utilized for foundational elements, symbolizing stability, while Corten steel serves as both structural and aesthetic components, representing resilience through its weathered appearance. Glass features prominently in viewing panels and facades, promoting transparency and connection with the landscape. The integration of natural landscaping introduces greenery that enhances users' experiences and creates a peaceful contrast to the urban setting. Water features, including reflective pools, act as focal points that evoke both tranquility and movement, reinforcing the memorial's themes of remembrance and hope.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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