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Elevated Lightwell Frame of Charred Wood and Concrete in a Memorial Space

Author:
Joshua Counter
Elevated Lightwell Frame of Charred Wood and Concrete in a Memorial Space
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Crafted with charred wood and concrete in a gently sloped landscape, the design provides a tranquil setting for reflection within a contemporary memorial space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic contrast.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.
03
Features a central skylight that connects visitors to the surrounding landscape.
04
Designed with a gently sloped terrain to integrate seamlessly with the cemetery's natural features.
05
Provides customizable niches for personal mementos, encouraging individual engagement.

The Chamber of Memories, located in Riga’s Forest Cemetery, is an architectural project designed as a contemporary columbarium. This structure serves multiple functions including the storage of cremated remains and providing a reflective space for visitors to remember and honor their loved ones. The design integrates harmoniously with its natural surroundings, facilitating a tranquil environment for contemplation.

The building's layout is organized around a central open area that allows for movement and interaction, surrounded by niches that accommodate urns. These niches are designed to invite personalization, enabling visitors to engage with the space in meaningful ways. The central skylight enhances the interior atmosphere by flooding the space with natural light, while also connecting the visitors to the sky, reinforcing the spiritual aspect of remembrance.

Unique design elements include the use of an undulating terrain that integrates the structure with the landscape. The projecting roof, coupled with carefully selected materials, such as timber, steel, concrete, glass, and aluminum, contributes to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the project. The choice of materials not only reflects a commitment to durability but also underscores the natural beauty of the site. Moreover, the tapered grade of the building’s form draws inspiration from diverse architectural traditions, creating a space that resonates culturally across various backgrounds.

The intention behind the architectural design is to foster a sense of community while allowing for personal reflection. The various configurations of niches accommodate different styles of visitation, catering to both public and semi-private experiences. This approach effectively balances the need for accessibility with the desire for solitude, making it a versatile space for different aspects of remembrance.

For further insights into the Chamber of Memories, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. An examination of these elements will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural decisions that inform this thoughtful memorial space.

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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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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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