Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Interactive Memorial with Plaited Metal Bands and Dynamic Lighting Integration

Authors:
Anita Wrzeszcz, Joanna Turłowicz, Magdalena Żołnierowicz, Aleksandra Wiśniewska
Interactive Memorial with Plaited Metal Bands and Dynamic Lighting Integration

Project in-detail

Plaited metal bands rise above an interactive ramp, creating a dynamic space for reflection and engagement within a memorial dedicated to the historic unity of the Baltic states.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique plaited metal bands represent the interconnectedness of the Baltic states.
02
Interactive projections are activated by visitor engagement, enhancing personal reflection.
03
Dynamic lighting adjusts based on visitor numbers, creating an immersive atmosphere.
04
The ramp structure provides multi-height perspectives, inviting exploration of the memorial.
05
Surrounding natural landscaping integrates the memorial into the riverfront environment.

### Overview
The Plaited Unity memorial commemorates the Baltic Way, a peaceful demonstration that united Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia against Soviet oppression in 1989. Situated between the Riga Technical University and the Daugava River in Latvia, the design aims to reflect the themes of unity and freedom inherent to this historic event. The architecture employs innovative forms, materials, and interactive elements, creating a space that serves both commemorative and experiential purposes.

### Spatial Strategy
Central to the design is the concept of linearity and connection, symbolized by three ribbon-like bands that represent each of the Baltic states. The intertwining ribbons not only signify cultural diversity but also foster a shared identity. The integration of a 2.7-meter ramp structure invites visitors to engage with the memorial from various perspectives, encouraging movement and exploration. Surrounding landscaping enhances the site's connection to nature, promoting reflection on the memorial's significance.

### Materiality
A careful selection of materials underpins the architectural vision. The ribbons are crafted from metal, which provides the necessary strength and flexibility to articulate fluid forms. Glass is used in the café area to maximize natural light and offer views of the Daugava River. Concrete serves as the primary material for the ramp and pathways, contrasting with the ribbons while ensuring durability. Landscape elements are included to soften the harsher materials, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the site.

### Unique Features
The memorial introduces interactive projections activated by metal elements that allow visitors to engage directly with the exhibit, fostering a personal connection to the historical narrative. Adjustable lighting along the ramp changes based on visitor activity, contributing to an intimate atmosphere. The open design of the ribbons further allows natural light to create a dynamic interplay of shadows, symbolizing transparency and hope. The layout not only facilitates movement but also includes practical amenities such as a café and souvenir shop, enhancing visitor experience and engagement.

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