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Crystalline Steel and Ferro-Concrete Blend in a Serene Memorial Space for Reflection

Authors:
Carla giulia Moretti, Carlo Moretti, Giuli Colombo
Crystalline Steel and Ferro-Concrete Blend in a Serene Memorial Space for Reflection

Project in-detail

The interplay of crystalline steel and robust ferro-concrete creates an immersive memorial space that invites visitors to reflect and find solace amidst a thoughtfully designed natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates crystalline steel trees that serve both structural and symbolic purposes.
02
Ferro-concrete slabs, measuring 40 cm thick, provide durability while harmonizing with the landscape.
03
Water features channel rainwater to flow along the crystalline structures, enhancing the sensory experience.
04
The project layout connects public gathering spaces with intimate niches for personal reflection.
05
Polished granite surfaces reflect light, creating a dynamic interplay with the surrounding natural elements.
The architectural project "Eternal Branches of Love" is conceived as a contemplative space designed to provide comfort and understanding for individuals navigating the complexities of grief and loss. This architectural endeavor represents a thoughtful exploration of emotional landscapes, using design elements to foster an environment where healing and reflection can take place. The project merges the physical structure with metaphorical significance, creating a space that encourages visitors to engage both with the built environment and the natural surroundings.

At its core, the project embodies the transition from mourning to hope, symbolizing this journey through a unique architectural language. The design is fundamentally rooted in the notion of renewal, with an emphasis on how elements of nature can reflect and support the human experience of loss. The structure serves not only as a memorial but also as a nurturing environment, inviting users to process their emotions in a serene setting.

A key feature of the architectural design is the integration of a pathway system that facilitates movement throughout the space. These pathways offer visitors both communal and private areas for reflection. The layout is purposefully designed to guide individuals through varying experiences—from shared moments of remembrance to intimate moments of solitude. This duality ensures that the space accommodates diverse emotional needs, making it a versatile site for various types of engagements with grief.

Detailing the project’s construction, the primary material used is ferro-concrete, chosen for its durability and tactile nature. The slabs extend 40 cm thick and 60 cm wide, creating a robust foundation that mirrors the strength inspired by resilience in the face of loss. The surfaces are adorned with polished granite, which enhances the tactile and visual experience of the space, engendering a connection with nature through its organic look. Further, crystalline steel trees are incorporated into the design, which not only serve as structural elements but also symbolize life and renewal, playing a vital role in bridging the space between the earthly experience of grief and the ongoing cycle of life.

The surrounding landscape, described as a "stone forest," enhances the natural serenity of the site. This integration of natural elements fosters a calming atmosphere, encouraging visitors to find solace amid the structures. Importantly, the project incorporates water features that mimic the gentle flow of rain—a poignant metaphor for the tears associated with grief. As water distributes along the branches of the crystalline trees, it contributes to the soundscape of the space, creating an immersive environment that envelops users in a sensory experience.

Unique design approaches evident in this project stem from how the architecture interacts with its surroundings. The organic shapes and curves are deliberately designed to evoke feelings of comfort and familiarity. The use of natural materials combined with modern construction techniques embodies a thoughtful approach to modern memorial spaces. The project’s layout fosters a connection to both the individual experience of loss and the collective experience of community support, underscoring the significance of shared spaces in times of mourning.

Visitors are encouraged to engage with the various architectural elements that populate the memorial site, from the inviting pathways to the tranquil areas for reflection. The thoughtful arrangement of public and private spaces invites deeper exploration and personal engagement with the design. The architecture not only serves a functional purpose but also encourages introspection, making the experience meaningful for each visitor.

For a comprehensive understanding of "Eternal Branches of Love," exploring the project presentation will provide valuable insights into its architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. Through this engagement, readers can appreciate the symbiotic relationship between architecture and the experience of grief, ultimately highlighting the capacity of design to influence emotional well-being. The architectural ideas presented in this project offer a new perspective on resilience, substantiated by a careful consideration of how space can support the healing process.
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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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