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Granite Prisms and Reflective Surfaces Creating Contemplative Spaces for Remembrance

Author:
Todica Eduard-george
Granite Prisms and Reflective Surfaces Creating Contemplative Spaces for Remembrance

Project in-detail

Granite prisms rise among reflective surfaces in a landscape designed for contemplation and remembrance, inviting visitors to engage with memory and loss in a serene setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Granite prisms vary in height, representing individual human experiences of loss.
02
Reflective water features enhance the sensory experience and encourage moments of reflection.
03
The design integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape, fostering a connection with surroundings.
04
Strategically placed lighting creates changing perceptions of space throughout the day.
05
The Kiln structure serves as a symbolic focal point for contemplation and remembrance.
The "Kiln..." architectural design project serves as a memorial space that addresses themes of memory and loss. Located in a serene landscape, the project engages visitors through a series of thoughtfully designed elements that invite reflection and contemplation. The intention behind this architecture is not only to commemorate past events but also to create a space that facilitates personal connections to history and collective experiences.

The centerpiece of the project is the Kiln structure. This substantial form acts as a focal point, symbolizing both loss and transformation. It draws influences from traditional kilns, relating the process of firing clay to the forging of memories. Surrounding the Kiln are granite prisms, which vary in height and alignment, creating a rhythm that encourages exploration. These geometric forms represent the scale of different human experiences and create an engaging landscape where visitors can walk through and reflect on their thoughts.

The use of water features is another significant aspect of the design. Stagnant pools within the courtyard contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, allowing for moments of pause and reflection. The reflective qualities of water interact with the sunlight, enhancing the sensory experience within the space. The arrangement of these elements creates a seamless relationship between the built environment and natural surroundings.

Architectural Materiality and Unique Design Approaches

Materiality plays a key role in the project, with granite chosen for its durability and connection to the earth. The granite structures evoke permanence, anchoring the memorial in its context while allowing visitors to engage with the tactile qualities of the materials. In addition to granite, glass elements have been incorporated to play with light and visibility, providing a contrast to the solidity of stone. This interplay between reflective surfaces and light adds depth, inviting varying perceptions throughout different times of the day.

What sets this project apart from others is its thoughtful integration with the landscape. The design does not stand isolated; rather, it works in harmony with the surrounding environment, allowing nature to seep into the architectural narrative. The emphasis on human experience and the emotional journey further differentiates the Kiln project from traditional memorials. Visitors actively engage in the space, navigating through different heights and levels while experiencing a collective journey of remembrance.

Exploring Architectural Details and Implications

Beyond the primary elements, the spatial organization promotes a unique pathway for visitors. Each element has been strategically placed to direct movement throughout the site, encouraging exploration while also providing designated areas for quiet reflection. The careful arrangement respects the visitor’s emotional journey, inviting them to engage with the setting at their own pace.

The design operates on multiple scales, from the monumental Kiln to the intimate details found in the granite formations. This layered approach allows for a variety of interpretative experiences, catering to both individual introspection and communal engagement. The project embodies an architectural idea that elevates personal narrative within a collective framework, making it a meaningful space for various interpretations of memory.

For those interested in understanding the "Kiln..." project further, viewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs can provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that shape this reflective space. Engaging with these elements highlights the deliberate decisions made in crafting a memorial that resonates with visitors and addresses the complex themes of loss and remembrance.
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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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