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Kinetic Reflections in Rusty Copper and Pine Cone Memory

Author:
Donghyen Lee
Kinetic Reflections in Rusty Copper and Pine Cone Memory
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With a kinetic system responding to humidity and constructed from rusty and glinded copper, the memorial invites visitors to engage with the themes of memory and community through the collection of fallen pine cones.
5 key facts about this project
01
Kinetic system responds to natural humidity in pine cones.
02
Constructed from rusty and glinded copper for visual contrast.
03
Designed for accessibility, located near a pedestrian path.
04
Interactive engagement through the collection of fallen pine cones.
05
Reflects themes of memory and community in the design narrative.

The site at Chinguacousy Park, known as the "Land of the Tall Pines," features a design that explores memory and community connection through its thoughtful relationship with nature. The concept draws from the pine tree and its cones, using them to symbolize often-overlooked lives and their significance. The intent is to create a space where people can reflect and engage with the stories being told, turning a typical memorial experience into one that invites participation and deeper understanding.

Design Concept

The design encourages visitors to interact by collecting fallen pine cones, fostering an active reflection on the experiences being commemorated. This shift transforms the act of remembrance into a personal engagement with the narratives of those honored. With a diameter of 3.7 meters and a height of approximately 3000 mm, the structure is designed for easy access, allowing everyone who visits the park to connect with it.

Kinetic System

A significant feature of the design is the kinetic system that responds to the natural humidity found in pine cones. This system illustrates weight differences, highlighting the contrast between the lightness of individual experiences and their deep collective importance. The movement within the structure represents the ongoing conversation between memory and life, adding a dynamic element that encourages visitor participation.

Materiality

The project utilizes materials such as rusty copper and glinded copper, which provide contrasting visual elements related to the theme of memory. These materials are paired with components like steel wire clips, steel wire, copper rings, and netting systems, all of which contribute to the overall structure. The choice of materials emphasizes the themes of recycling and transformation, reinforcing the connection to nature and the experiences being remembered.

Design Integration

The design integrates smoothly with its natural surroundings, creating a space that invites contemplation and engagement. The elements of the structure are meant to spark thought and promote a deeper appreciation for the lives honored. The careful arrangement culminates in a representation of how memory and existence interact, offering a reminder of the stories embedded in nature.

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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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Competition organisers

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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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