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Crystallized Trees and Hammered Stone in a Tranquil Memorial Space

Authors:
Carla giulia Moretti, Carlo Moretti, Giuli Colombo
Crystallized Trees and Hammered Stone in a Tranquil Memorial Space

Project in-detail

With a design that incorporates crystallized trees and hammered stone, this tranquil memorial space fosters reflection and connection amid landscapes of nature and memory.
5 key facts about this project
01
A stone forest forms the primary structure, symbolizing interconnectedness.
02
Columbaria are integrated into stylized trees, creating personal tribute spaces.
03
Crystallized trees add a visual and atmospheric element to the memorial.
04
Rainwater is directed along tree branches, enhancing the landscape's sensory experience.
05
Moss growth on surfaces visually represents resilience and renewal.

Eternal Branches of Love is designed as a tranquil space for those experiencing grief. Located in a park-like setting, it aims to create a comforting environment focused on memory and connection. The design introduces the concept of a "stone forest," which symbolizes the bond between the living and those who have passed away. This space encourages visitors to reflect on their emotions while engaging with the natural world.

Stone Forest Structure

The project features a series of stone slabs arranged in a chain-like pattern. This layout represents the connections among individuals and their community. The slabs are thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, along with real trees and patches of grass, allowing visitors to experience a blend of architecture and nature. The stone forest serves not only as a structural component but also as a visual and emotional focal point for those processing their grief.

Columbaria and Personal Tributes

Columbaria are placed strategically along the trunks of stylized trees within the stone forest. These structures are made of hammered stone and include spaces for names, dates, candle holders, and photographs. This design allows for a personal tribute to loved ones, making the site more intimate. Visitors can engage with these elements, creating a direct and meaningful connection to the memories of those they have lost.

Water Flow and Natural Elements

An essential feature of the design is its approach to managing rainwater. The flow of water is directed along the branches and trunks of stylized trees, enhancing the sensory experience of the space. This aspect symbolizes the continuity of life in a natural way. Potential moss growth on the tree trunks provides a visual reminder of resilience in the face of loss and adds character to the environment.

Crystallized Trees

A unique aspect of the design is the inclusion of crystallized trees. These structures have steel trunks and branches covered in a glass-like surface. They add to the overall atmosphere, giving a sense of an enchanted forest. The arrangement of these trees creates various meditative areas throughout the landscape. Clearings and thickenings invite visitors to reflect and find solace, enriching their experience within the space.

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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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