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Human Chain Structure Featuring Concrete and Glass Amidst Reflective Landscapes

Authors:
Hongcheol Kim, Taejoon Jung, Yongjun Park, Sihoon Choe
Human Chain Structure Featuring Concrete and Glass Amidst Reflective Landscapes
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The integration of slender columns and expansive glass facades creates a dynamic space that commemorates the Baltic Way, serving as a multifunctional center for education and public engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design utilizes slender columns to mimic the imagery of a human chain.
02
Expansive glass facades enhance transparency and connection with the surroundings.
03
Integrated landscaping creates an inviting open space for community interaction.
04
The architectural form incorporates elements that reflect historical narratives.
05
Concrete and steel construction ensures durability while maintaining a modern aesthetic.

### Overview
Located along 11th Novembra Krastmala, the project commemorates the Baltic Way, a peaceful demonstration in 1989 uniting the people of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania against Soviet rule. The design honors the historical significance of this event while integrating contemporary architectural principles and spatial configurations. It explores themes of freedom, unity, and resilience, providing functional spaces for exhibitions, educational programs, and memorial activities.

### Spatial Organization
The master plan features a linear arrangement that promotes functionality and visitor engagement. Key areas include equipped cafés, gift shops, and exhibition spaces designed for discourse and commemoration, complemented by central information centers providing context about the Baltic Way. Tall, slender columns punctuate the design, evoking the image of raised hands in a human chain and reinforcing the project's thematic essence. Pathways and corridors throughout the interior ensure a cohesive flow, allowing visitors to engage with the narrative of freedom and unity while fostering reflection.

### Material Selection
The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials to convey its underlying conceptual framework. Concrete forms the structural framework, symbolizing permanence, while glass elements provide transparency and connection to the historical context. Steel contributes to the overall robustness of the structure, invoking industrial aesthetics, and green spaces are integrated to create a softening effect that engages with the surrounding landscape. These material choices not only facilitate construction but also enhance the emotional resonance of the space, linking historical narratives with contemporary architectural practice.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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