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Light-Filled Memorial Reflecting Historical Resilience

Authors:
Javier Antonio Contreras Martinez, Apanco Gutiérrez Saúl Antonio, Max Flores Castañeda, Esmeralda Martínez Patricio
Light-Filled Memorial Reflecting Historical Resilience
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A memorial designed to harness natural light and foster reflection, honoring the memory of victims while addressing the ongoing plight of Indigenous communities in Chiapas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Light is a central design element, creating a reflective atmosphere throughout the memorial.
02
The spatial layout guides visitors on a journey through different areas of remembrance.
03
Natural surroundings are integrated to enhance the memorial's connection to the environment.
04
Design addresses the specific historical context of the Acteal massacre and ongoing Indigenous issues.
05
The structure aims to foster a sense of healing and resilience among visitors.

"TRACE OF AN ENDLESS CHASE" is a memorial located in Acteal, Chiapas. It addresses the ongoing persecution of Indigenous people in the region while commemorating the massacre of 49 innocent victims that occurred in 1997. The design focuses on the use of light to create an environment that encourages reflection. The project aims to honor the memories of those lost while inviting visitors to engage with the historical context.

Architectural Concept

The central idea of the memorial revolves around the manipulation of light. This choice is not just about aesthetics; it symbolizes themes of hope and endurance. The design invites visitors to connect with the stories of those who suffered. Its openness and transparency allow for an experience that deepens understanding of the complex history surrounding the site.

Spatial Organization

The layout is thoughtfully organized to promote movement and interaction among visitors. As people move through the space, they encounter different areas dedicated to remembrance. Each transition is designed to engage visitors, encouraging quiet reflection on the history and significance of the massacre. This careful arrangement helps to create a dialogue about the challenges faced by Indigenous communities today.

Landscape Integration

Although specific materials are not mentioned, the design suggests a simple aesthetic that complements the natural surroundings. The connection between the memorial and the landscape enhances the reflective experience for visitors. This integration emphasizes a theme of resilience, allowing people to feel a part of the environment and history.

Light fills the spaces, creating an atmosphere that encourages contemplation. The design invites visitors to reflect on the past while experiencing a sense of peace among the memorial's somber message.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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