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Curvilinear Tombs Surrounded by Diverse Flora in a Tranquil Cemetery Setting

Authors:
Ewa Serafinska, Sylwia Paleczna
Curvilinear Tombs Surrounded by Diverse Flora in a Tranquil Cemetery Setting
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Curvilinear tombs are complemented by a flowing watercourse and diverse plant life, creating a tranquil space for reflection and remembrance within a thoughtfully designed cemetery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear tomb shapes create a flowing visual connection throughout the site.
02
A watercourse is integrated to enhance the tranquil atmosphere of the cemetery.
03
Selected plant species bloom across seasons, symbolizing the cyclical nature of life.
04
Multiple niches in each grave module accommodate flexible memorialization options.
05
A rainwater management system directs water flow, contributing to site sustainability.

The Road to Solace is a design located within a cemetery that serves as a reflective space for visitors. Its overall concept uses the image of a winding road to symbolize the unpredictable nature of life. The layout includes a central pathway that curves gracefully through the site, accompanied by tombs shaped to fit harmoniously within the landscape. This creates a tranquil and inviting environment for contemplation.

Conceptual Framework

The design is grounded in the idea of transience, using winding paths to encourage visitors to reflect on their experiences. The arrangement of spaces transitions between communal areas and private spots, catering to both social gatherings and quiet moments of solitude. This thoughtful division allows individuals to connect with others or engage in personal reflection as they navigate the site.

Natural Elements

A notable feature in the design is a watercourse that flows through the cemetery, enhancing the environment's calmness. This water element serves both aesthetic and ecological functions. The use of varied plant species is essential, ensuring blooms continue throughout the seasons. This aspect highlights life's cyclical nature, representing renewal and the passage of time in a meaningful way.

Architectural Features

The building within the cemetery is designed to include several niches that provide spaces for quiet contemplation. Ramps lead upward to the ceiling, creating an elevated area for reflection. The grave modules are also designed to hold three niches, accommodating 1-4 burial urns and allowing for a flexible approach to memorialization. This modular design supports personalization for those looking to commemorate their loved ones.

Materials and Sustainability

Materials used in the construction include light grey granite and dark grey granite, valued for their strength and visual appeal. Additionally, a rainwater management system is integrated into the design, utilizing channels and troughs to manage water flow. This aspect emphasizes sustainability and enhances the peaceful atmosphere of the cemetery, as water flows gently down the building's facade.

The design concludes with spaces that promote contemplation, featuring niches embraced by a variety of plants that bloom across the seasons, offering a living reflection of both loss and continuity.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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