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Light and Shadow in a Dual Narrative Memorial Space

Author:
Mai Abu-shanab
Light and Shadow in a Dual Narrative Memorial Space

Project in-detail

The interplay of light and shadow defines a memorial space that encapsulates the duality of grief and resilience, creating an environment intended for reflection and education on the themes of genocide and humanity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Memorial design emphasizes the contrast between light and shadow to enhance emotional impact.
02
Built with a bent A-frame structure that creates dynamic spatial experiences.
03
Uses cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Features charred wooden shingles, adding texture and cultural significance.
05
Designed to facilitate both reflection and educational engagement on genocide themes.

The design explores complex themes of genocide and human conflict, weaving them into a thoughtful composition. It encourages reflection on national and ethnic identities. The design serves both as a memorial and a space for education. At its core, the concept addresses the shocking reality of genocide, highlighting it as a serious crime against humanity.

Conceptual Framework

The concept focuses on contrasting experiences, specifically the duality of grief and hope. This idea shapes the design, with spaces that allow viewers to move through different emotional states. Variations in light and shadow play a vital role, enhancing the connection to the themes presented. Each area of the design invites deeper engagement with the narrative.

Spatial Dynamics

Spatial organization is essential to conveying the project's message. Spaces are arranged to represent the two emotional sides of the narrative. One area reflects the profound sadness connected to tragedy, while the other expresses resilience and strength. The experience of moving between these spaces adds depth to the overall narrative, encouraging thoughtfulness and reflection.

Architectural Elements

While the presentation does not detail specific materials, the architecture uses light and structural shapes to create interesting spaces. The way light interacts with the surfaces contributes significantly to the overall atmosphere. Shadows highlight emotions embedded in the design and help tell the project’s story.

The careful manipulation of light creates a unique atmosphere that shapes the visitor's experience. As light moves across the surfaces, it reveals different aspects of the space, echoing the themes of memory and humanity woven throughout the design. This focus on illumination not only enhances the experience but also reinforces the important messages about remembrance and reflection.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

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