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Curved Niches of Natural Stone and Wood in a Contemplative Columbarium

Authors:
Jessica Casalino, Batool Alqasas, Zarreen Khan, Giuseppe Scarola
Curved Niches of Natural Stone and Wood in a Contemplative Columbarium

Project in-detail

Curved niches crafted from natural stone and warm wood create a serene environment for reflection and remembrance in a thoughtfully designed columbarium.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved niches allow for personalized memorial spaces, enhancing emotional connection.
02
Natural stone and wood materials integrate harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
03
Reflective water features provide tranquility and encourage contemplation.
04
Use of sustainable materials aligns with ecological considerations in design.
05
The layout facilitates natural light penetration, creating a serene atmosphere.
The project named Revolve represents a contemporary architectural design aimed at serving as a columbarium. It focuses on providing a contemplative space that facilitates reflection and interaction with the environment. The design is characterized by fluid geometries and a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape, emphasizing the importance of nature in the grieving process. The architecture encourages visitors to traverse the site, promoting personal reflection and emotional healing.

The columbarium is strategically positioned to integrate with the natural topography, accommodating the existing features of the landscape. The site plan includes meandering pathways that encourage exploration, leading to various contemplative spaces. Native plantings complement the structures, fostering a serene ambiance throughout different seasons. This integration aims to enhance the user experience, allowing individuals to engage with their surroundings meaningfully.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinctive aspect of the Revolve project is its innovative niche design within the columbarium. Each niche is uniquely shaped and positioned along organic curves, allowing for personalization and ensuring a connection to nature. The use of natural materials such as stone, wood, and glass further establishes a harmonious relationship with the environment. This choice of materials not only promotes sustainability but also enriches the aesthetic quality of the spaces.

Reflective pools strategically placed throughout the site serve as visual anchors. They integrate water elements that foster tranquility, providing a space for pause and contemplation. The layout of the pathways and the arrangement of seating areas also reflect careful consideration of user experience, encouraging movement while simultaneously offering areas for rest and reflection.

Architectural Components and Details

The architectural design features various elevations, showcasing different aspects of the columbarium. The North and South elevations highlight the structural integrity and material richness, while the East and West elevations optimize natural light, enhancing the experience of the space. Sections along the site depict a clear understanding of spatial relationships and the interplay between built form and nature.

In summary, the Revolve project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture by balancing aesthetic demands with functional needs. The design outcomes reflect an understanding of the emotional aspects associated with memorial spaces. For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design philosophy, exploring the project presentation will provide additional contextual information and a comprehensive understanding of the architecture involved.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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