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Curved Concrete and Glass Structure Commemorating Unity in Community Space

Author:
Angelika Bocian
Curved Concrete and Glass Structure Commemorating Unity in Community Space
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The interplay of curved concrete and expansive glass in this memorial building creates an evocative space that honors collective history while serving as an active community gathering point.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved design reflects the concept of unity and connection among visitors.
02
Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light and transparency throughout the space.
03
The central gathering area features a round court to facilitate community interaction.
04
Materials chosen emphasize durability while also conveying a sense of openness.
05
Strategically integrated landscaping enhances the memorial's connection to its urban environment.

### Overview

Located in Riga, Latvia, the Baltic Way Memorial Building commemorates the historic human chain of 1989, which represented a pivotal moment in the region's advocacy for independence from the Soviet Union. The memorial functions as a space for public engagement and remembrance, designed to facilitate interaction among visitors while honoring the collective history of the Baltic States. Its conceptual framework centers around themes of unity and reflection, providing an environment where individuals can engage with their shared heritage.

### Spatial Organization

The layout of the memorial emphasizes inclusivity and functionality, incorporating communal spaces such as a café, exhibition areas, and a central round garden court. This multifunctional approach encourages diverse activities, facilitating historical exhibitions alongside casual gatherings. The flowing forms and arched ceilings resonate with the notion of continuity and connection, moving away from traditional rectilinear elements to create an inviting atmosphere. The design encourages visitors to transition from urban life into a contemplative space dedicated to memory and dialogue.

### Material Expression

Key materials play a significant role in the building's architectural narrative. Concrete serves as the primary structural component, symbolizing resilience, while strategically positioned glass enhances daylighting and fosters a sense of openness. Stone pavers create textured pathways that guide visitors through the landscape, and steel contributes to the structural integrity of dynamic forms. Together, these materials establish a balance between solidity and transparency, reflecting the themes of memory and hope integral to the memorial's purpose. The surrounding landscaping is designed to harmonize with the building, reinforcing its role as a tranquil space amid the bustling urban environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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Design the next suburban home for the USA

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