Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Gilded Niches and Flowing Water in a Serene Memorial Space

Author:
Francis Ng
Gilded Niches and Flowing Water in a Serene Memorial Space

Project in-detail

Gilded niches seamlessly integrate with flowing water to create a tranquil memorial space that encourages reflection and healing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gilded niches are integrated into the structure, allowing for personalized memorials.
02
A continuous flowing water feature enhances the calming atmosphere throughout the space.
03
The use of GRC for columns combines structural integrity with aesthetic appeal.
04
Strategic lighting highlights architectural details while symbolizing enduring connections.
05
Fair-faced concrete provides a modern, durable exterior that emphasizes permanence.

Sojourn of Light and Rest is designed to address the themes of grief and memory. It is located in a serene environment, ideal for reflection and contemplation. The design revolves around a central idea of encouraging emotional healing and celebrating life. A flowing stream runs through the structure, acting as a symbol of the ongoing journey after loss, guiding visitors toward acceptance and resilience.

Monumental Structure

The building features a grand form, highlighted by tall columns that lend a sense of importance to the space. This structure is intentionally split into two parts, representing the separation experienced through loss while also emphasizing a sense of continuity. The layout invites people to explore and engage deeply with each section, fostering personal moments of remembrance and introspection.

Flowing Water

Water is a prominent element in the design and contributes significantly to the atmosphere. Its continuous flow creates a calming effect, providing a backdrop that encourages quiet reflection. The sound of moving water resonates throughout the space, serving as a gentle reminder of life’s cyclical nature. This element supports the theme of hope and renewal, drawing visitors into a contemplative experience.

Illumination and Materiality

Light serves a crucial role in shaping the space's overall feeling. Thoughtfully placed lighting enhances the architectural features, particularly the columns. These illuminated structures symbolize enduring connections and support the emotional experience of the space. Materials are carefully selected to align with the design's intent. The exterior uses fair-faced concrete for a modern appearance, conveying a sense of durability. GRC, or Glass Reinforced Concrete, is chosen for its strength. Waterproof LED strip lighting illuminates the columns, merging technology with the serene environment.

Memorial Niches

Gilded niches are integrated into the structure, providing intimate spaces for the remembrance of loved ones. These dedicated areas encourage visitors to pause and reflect, creating a personal connection to the space. The choice of stainless steel for these niches adds a contemporary feel, while also symbolizing resilience and permanence.

The interplay of light and shadow across the space draws attention to the careful details of the design. This highlights the balance of stability and change, creating an environment that thoughtfully guides visitors through their journey of remembrance.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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