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Curvilinear Design Emphasizing Cross-Laminated Timber and Interactive Space for Cultural Commemoration

Authors:
ARTHUR WARREN NORDFORS III, PHILLIP GRASSO, VICTORIA FORD
Curvilinear Design Emphasizing Cross-Laminated Timber and Interactive Space for Cultural Commemoration

Project in-detail

Characterized by an undulating form crafted from cross-laminated timber, the design serves as both a cultural memorial and an interactive gathering space, reflecting the historical significance of unity and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sculptural undulating form symbolizes unity and collective action.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction enhances sustainability and warmth.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive aesthetic and fire resistance.
04
Interactive spaces designed for flexible use and community gatherings.
05
Integrated media walls showcase historical narratives and evolving stories.

## Overview

The Baltic Way Memorial Centre is situated in Latvia and aims to commemorate the collaborative spirit and pursuit of independence among the Baltic states—Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania. The design serves as a platform for historical reflection and community engagement, moving beyond a conventional monument to foster a living space that encapsulates the narrative of the Baltic Way, a peaceful demonstration in 1989 where approximately two million people formed a human chain across 600 kilometers to advocate for independence from the Soviet Union.

## Spatial and Structural Strategy

The design concept centers around connectivity, both physical and emotional, mirroring the historical event it commemorates. The undulating form of the Memorial evokes the movement and unity of individuals linked together. A combination of faceted glass panels and cross-laminated timber creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, while the building's organic shape enhances pedestrian flow, facilitating a connection between visitors and the memorial’s significance.

### Key Structural Features:
- **Undulating Roof:** Reflects the organic nature of human connections.
- **Faceted Glass Facade:** Allows natural light to permeate the interior, promoting openness.
- **Curvilinear Shapes:** Foster a smooth circulation path that resonates with the theme of unity.

## Material and User Engagement

The material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and cultural resonance. Cross-laminated timber provides warmth and reflects craftsmanship, while faceted glass enhances transparency, allowing visibility into the activities inside. An innovative steel framework offers structural integrity while symbolizing unity through its interlocking design. Outdoor features, such as decorative benches made from reclaimed wood, further engage visitors and create spaces for rest and interaction.

### Interior and Landscape Design:
The interior layout consists of interconnected spaces that can adapt for various functions, including exhibitions and community gatherings. A central café promotes social interaction among visitors. Surrounding the building, landscaped areas are designed to enrich the user experience with grass terraces for contemplation and interactive installations aimed at younger audiences, reinforcing the Memorial’s mission of connection and community.

### Key Features:
- **Exhibition Area:** Showcases historical artifacts, immersing visitors in the Baltic Way narrative.
- **Café Space:** Serves as a social hub, enhancing community engagement.
- **Terraced Landscape:** Provides areas for relaxation and overlook, integrating the natural environment with the architectural experience.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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