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Ethereal Spaces Crafted From Concrete and Oak For Reflective Experiences

Authors:
Rory Peckham, Ahaan Marwah, Tobia Graziani
Ethereal Spaces Crafted From Concrete and Oak For Reflective Experiences

Project in-detail

Crafted from resilient concrete and timeless oak, the design creates a fluid interplay between memorial spaces and lush landscaping, inviting visitors to engage with nature and reflect on personal memories.
5 key facts about this project
01
The Silhouette Wall holds urns while seamlessly integrating into the surrounding landscape.
02
Interactive bird baths enhance wildlife presence, creating a vibrant ecological environment.
03
Niches are designed for personal mementos, encouraging individual engagement with the space.
04
The project showcases resilient concrete paired with natural oak, emphasizing durability and aesthetic harmony.
05
Landscaping promotes biodiversity, featuring a curated mix of native plants to enrich the experience.
The project known as the "Eternal Archive of a Weathered Oak" is a thoughtfully designed architectural endeavor that beautifully intertwines human memory with the natural environment. This project represents a space devoted to reflection, commemoration, and the passage of time, embodying a unique architectural narrative that encourages visitors to engage with both nature and their own experiences. The design effectively emphasizes the relationship between memory and the cycles of life, making it a compelling destination for personal and communal reflection.

The function of the project is multifaceted; it serves as a memorial space while also encompassing areas for quiet contemplation and interaction with nature. The layout is carefully organized into interconnected pathways and niches, which guide visitors through the site in a way that feels both intuitive and inviting. Each pathway represents different facets of individual and collective histories, creating an experience that resonates deeply with those who explore it.

A pivotal element of the design is the Silhouette Wall, which acts as a strong structural feature holding urns while also defining the spatial elements of the archive. This boundary cleverly combines rigidity with the softness of the surrounding landscape, highlighting the contrast between human permanence and the ephemeral nature of life. The choice of materials plays an important role in achieving this balance. Concrete, as the main material, provides durability and longevity while contrasting against the organic aspects conveyed through the surrounding flora.

Trees, specifically the English Oak (Quercus Robur) and Birch, have been strategically integrated into the design to reflect the themes of life’s cycle and memory. The oak, known for its longevity, symbolizes the passage of time and personal histories, while the birch complements this with its delicate beauty. The project aims to honor the idea that human experiences, like the changing leaves of trees, are part of a broader narrative that connects generations.

In terms of landscaping, this project has been designed to promote biodiversity. Various plant species, including ferns and daisies, have been incorporated to create a rich sensory experience, fostering an environment where visitors can engage with nature on multiple levels. The thoughtful curation of plant life not only enhances the visual appeal of the space but also emphasizes the importance of ecological sustainability.

Unique design approaches have been employed throughout the project, particularly in its integration of interactive features such as bird baths, which invite wildlife and enhance the natural ambiance of the space. Additionally, the niches within the site provide personal spaces for visitors to leave mementos, bridging individual memories with the collective experience of the natural setting. This aspect encourages a continuous dialogue between the architectural elements and the ongoing process of remembrance.

The "Eternal Archive of a Weathered Oak" represents much more than a typical memorial; it stands as a testament to humanity’s connection with the environment and the importance of memories. The project fosters engagement through its adaptable spaces and diverse materials, enhancing the relationship between users and the natural world.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas can provide deeper insights into the intricacies and intentions behind this compelling architectural work. Engaging with these elements will likely enhance one’s understanding of how architecture can serve as a vessel for memory and reflection, allowing it to fulfill its role in society meaningfully.
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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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