Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Frosted Glass Reflections and RC Shear Walls in a Thoughtful Memorial Space

Author:
Suraj Kadam
Frosted Glass Reflections and RC Shear Walls in a Thoughtful Memorial Space
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Chamber of Thoughts, an intimate underground space constructed with RC shear walls and frosted glass, invites quiet reflection amidst the memorial's solemn narrative.
5 key facts about this project
01
Chamber of Thoughts is designed as an underground reflective space, enhancing intimacy and contemplation.
02
RC shear walls provide structural integrity while creating a distinct architectural narrative.
03
Frosted glass panels filter light, promoting a serene atmosphere within the memorial.
04
The design incorporates a panoramic view of Chinguacousy Park, connecting nature with remembrance.
05
Hierarchical memorial archetypes are integrated to allow diverse visitor experiences and interpretations.

The memorial dedicated to the Holocaust is located in Chinguacousy Park and serves as a space for reflection and remembrance. It addresses the challenges of commemorating a historical event that is difficult to fully grasp. The design concept is centered around evoking emotional connections and facilitating visitor engagement through its carefully considered form and layout.

Design Intent

The memorial features a hierarchical structure that includes various types of memorials such as a mausoleum, monument, cenotaph, and tombstone. This arrangement allows for multiple interpretations and personal experiences, offering visitors an opportunity to connect with both individual and collective memories. The architecture communicates the importance of memory in understanding past events.

Spatial Dynamics

A coherent volume within the memorial transforms into an observation point that looks over the surrounding park. This spatial design encourages visitors to engage with the landscape while contemplating the somber aspects of the memorial. The journey through the space is guided by its organization, prompting a dialogue between the built environment and the feelings it evokes.

Materiality

Materials play an essential role in the expression of the memorial's themes. The use of reinforced concrete shear walls provides structural support while contributing to the narrative through their curved shape. Glass panels create clear boundaries that allow for expansive views of the park, and frosted glass filters light, fostering a calm environment. Stone slate cladding reinforces the memorial’s connection to humanity, encouraging interaction with its physical structure.

Final Design Detail

The Chamber of Thoughts is an underground area designed for personal reflection. It creates a sense of confinement, mirroring the emotional struggles faced by victims and their families. This intimate space enhances the memorial experience, inviting visitors into a shared moment of contemplation that resonates deeply within the overall design.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 28 May 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Rome 
Rain Rooms

Design rain rooms for Rome

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 May 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 28 May 2026
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 27 May 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy