Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Light-Infused Columbarium with Dynamic Wells for Reflection

Author:
Chunxin Yu
Light-Infused Columbarium with Dynamic Wells for Reflection

Project in-detail

Dynamic wells filter natural light into an underground columbarium, enhancing the reflective experience for visitors while offering a serene space for remembrance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Wells allow natural light to penetrate deep into the underground space.
02
Columns are strategically positioned to create varying experiences of compression and expansion.
03
The entrance room provides a transitional moment before entering the memorial space.
04
A grid layout facilitates both circulation and privacy for visitors.
05
Elements above ground maintain a randomized arrangement to enhance discovery.

The Chamber of Memories serves as a reflective space designed for remembrance and contemplation. Located underground, the columbarium is intended to create a peaceful environment for individuals to connect with the memories of their loved ones. The overall design concept emphasizes the role of light, utilizing both natural and artificial sources to create an inviting atmosphere that enhances the experience of the space.

Lighting Approach

The design strategically incorporates light to highlight individual niches that hold the ashes of the deceased. Wells in the center of the columns allow natural light to reach the underground area, fostering a serene ambiance that encourages personal introspection. Additionally, artificial lighting is carefully integrated to maintain a soft glow, helping to preserve a respectful atmosphere throughout the memorial.

Spatial Layout

The spatial design employs a grid system, with columns positioned to create a balance between open spaces and more intimate areas. This arrangement facilitates movement while ensuring visitors can find privacy. The careful placement of these structures enhances the overall experience, allowing for meaningful connections to occur within the space.

Above and Below Ground Connection

Elements above ground function as an extension of the underground columbarium, arranged in an intentional but varied manner. This randomness prevents immediate recognition of what lies below, adding an element of surprise for visitors. The transition from the public space above to the more personal environment below supports a sense of separation and allows for deeper engagement.

Entrance and Transition Zones

At the rear of the site, the entrance room acts as the only sheltered area on the surface, serving as a space of transition from the outside world to the memorial. This area offers visitors a moment to pause and prepare themselves before descending into the more intimate setting below. It continues the idea of the surrounding landscape, providing a dedicated place for reflection and contemplation.

The design uses light and shadow to emphasize each niche within the memorial, inviting visitors to engage with the memories housed in this thoughtfully crafted environment.

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