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Integrating Ancestral Ashes Into Concrete Frameworks For Sustainable Memorial Housing

Authors:
JIONGHUI LIN, CHEN-CHIEH CHAN
Integrating Ancestral Ashes Into Concrete Frameworks For Sustainable Memorial Housing

Project in-detail

Blending ancestral ashes into a concrete framework, this memorial housing initiative challenges traditional notions of remembrance while creating adaptable living spaces that honor family heritage in a densely populated urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Ancestral ashes are incorporated into the concrete mix, creating a tangible connection to heritage.
02
The design features vertical gardens that enhance biodiversity and improve air quality within the urban setting.
03
Flexible interior layouts allow residents to modify living spaces according to their evolving needs.
04
The use of recycled materials highlights a commitment to sustainability and waste reduction in construction.
05
A transparent facade fosters a sense of openness and encourages interaction between the interior and surrounding environment.
The architectural project, named "Coexistence of Nihility & Existence," is thoughtfully situated in the vibrant urban landscape of Hong Kong. This design serves as a new typology that bridges the gap between the living and the memorialization of the deceased, representing a nuanced exploration of how architecture can engage with cultural traditions and contemporary urban challenges. It operates at the intersection of functionality and memory, proposing a unique solution to the dense housing conditions prevalent in Hong Kong, while also addressing issues surrounding waste management.

At its core, this architectural project is intended to offer a multi-functional living environment while incorporating elements of remembrance. The design facilitates not only residential spaces but also provides a contemplative zone where individuals can connect with their heritage. This dual-purpose approach represents a significant shift in architectural thinking, as it weaves the notion of personal and collective memory into physical structures. The utilization of ashes of ancestors mixed with building materials forms a poignant emblem of continuity and connection, allowing memories to inhabit the spaces where the living reside.

The structure itself showcases an elegant, vertical form that is characteristic of Hong Kong's urban fabric. The facade features a modern aesthetic with a hint of fragmentation, symbolizing the intertwining of life and death. This design choice results in a dynamic interplay of solid and void, enhancing the visual experience while incorporating ample natural light. The incorporation of large glass panels plays a critical role in promoting transparency. This design not only helps to connect the exterior environment with interior spaces but also fosters a sense of openness that contrasts with the often-cloistered nature of high-density living.

The building is organized with principles that prioritize adaptability. In practical terms, flexible interior layouts allow residents to modify their living arrangements to suit their needs over time, making the space versatile and responsive. This adaptability reflects a growing understanding in contemporary architecture that static residential models are increasingly inadequate in rapidly changing urban contexts. It acknowledges the need for spaces that can evolve as the lives of their occupants do, ultimately enhancing the living experience.

A notable aspect of the project is the integration of green elements. Vertical gardens are thoughtfully embedded within the design, acting not only as aesthetic features but also as essential components that improve air quality and absorb noise, contributing to a more sustainable urban environment. These green spaces provide residents with an opportunity to engage with nature, fostering a sense of well-being amidst the urban hustle.

In terms of materials, this project embodies a responsible approach to construction, utilizing recycled and sustainable materials wherever feasible. The application of cement, supplemented with the unique incorporation of ancestral ashes, provides a poignant connection to the past while maintaining structural integrity. Steel frames support the overall design, offering stability without overwhelming the aesthetic quality of the structure.

What sets this project apart is its sensitivity to cultural and environmental issues. By rethinking how we memorialize the deceased, it introduces a thoughtful dialogue on remembrance embedded within the very fabric of the architecture. This unique approach invites discussions about sustainability, heritage, and community, essentially redefining the relationship between architecture and the narratives that accompany it.

For readers interested in delving deeper into the architectural elements of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas will provide further insights into how each detail is carefully crafted to serve dual purposes of living and remembrance. The "Coexistence of Nihility & Existence" is not just a building; it is an invitation to reflect on our relationships with the past while considering the active engagement of space in the present. Discover more about this project to appreciate its intricacies further.
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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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