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Floating Volume Supported by Slender Columns Creating a Community Memorial in Concrete and Steel

Author:
Sukhwan Choi
Floating Volume Supported by Slender Columns Creating a Community Memorial in Concrete and Steel

Project in-detail

Rising above the landscape as a floating volume held by slender columns, this memorial integrates concrete and steel to create an interactive community space dedicated to honoring historical narratives.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates a floating volume design supported by slender columns, enhancing the sense of lightness and elevation.
02
A unique chain symbolism is integrated into the architecture through the arrangement of columns, contributing to the narrative of freedom.
03
Natural lighting is maximized through extensive glass facades, creating dynamic interactions between indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
The use of environmentally sensitive materials, such as concrete and steel, ensures durability while maintaining aesthetic coherence.
05
Community engagement is prioritized through an interactive ramp that serves as a journey to the main exhibition space, enhancing visitor experience.
The architectural design project at hand presents a thoughtfully conceived space that emphasizes the themes of history and community engagement. This project serves as both a memorial and an educational facility, designed to embody the collective memory of a significant historical event while also fostering public interaction and discourse. The architecture seamlessly blends functionality with a poignant representation of freedom, inviting visitors to engage with the past in a reflective manner.

The design illustrates a "floating volume" that hovers above ground, supported by slender columns resembling chains. This concept not only serves as a structural solution but also signifies liberation, echoing the narrative of overcoming struggles. The presence of the chains creates a visual metaphor that resonates with the journey toward freedom, reinforcing the emotional connection of the architecture to its historical context.

Functionally, the building accommodates various public activities, including exhibitions, educational programs, and community events. The main exhibition space is situated within this floating volume, designed to provide an immersive experience for visitors as they explore stories and artifacts related to the historical event it commemorates. Additionally, the project features a souvenir shop and a café, inviting visitors to linger and reflect in a collaborative space that seamlessly connects to the exterior landscape. The inclusion of these amenities ensures that the structure serves as a vibrant hub for community engagement.

The project is characterized by its well-considered materiality. Concrete is employed for the structural base and columns, providing a sense of permanence and durability. Steel is utilized in the railings and chains, symbolizing strength and modernity. The use of glass within the façade and interior spaces enhances the connection between the indoor and outdoor environments, allowing natural light to filter through and encourage interaction with the surroundings. Landscaping with grass and open areas creates inviting spaces for relaxation and contemplation, complementing the overall architectural vision.

Key features of the design include the ramp that leads to the floating volume. This pathway is integral to the visitor experience, encouraging physical engagement as individuals ascend toward the exhibition space. The ramp is not merely a transitional element; it acts as a conduit for storytelling, involving visitors in a journey that transforms their understanding of the historical context. The careful arrangement of columns creates a rhythmic visual pattern that contributes to the overall aesthetic and spatial quality of the site.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project in both its form and function. The choice to elevate the primary volume above ground allows for an interaction with the natural landscape, creating a dialogue between architecture and its environment. This design decision emphasizes transparency and lightness, contrasting the notion of a heavy memorial with a buoyant, uplifting structure. The combination of these design elements encourages visitors to participate actively in their experience rather than simply observing from a distance.

This architectural endeavor exemplifies how thoughtful design can engage the public in meaningful ways while honoring historical narratives. The integration of symbolic elements with functional spaces reinforces the project's purpose: to educate and create a sense of community. The architecture not only stands as a testament to history but also functions as a dynamic venue for contemporary activities.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas, reviewing the project presentation will deepen your understanding of how architectural considerations translate into meaningful experiences. This exploration will reveal how the architecture operates on multiple levels, both as a memorial site and as a vibrant community space.
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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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