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Light Play and Natural Stone Form a Community Space Anchored in Collective Memory

Authors:
Eranga De Zoysa, Abhishek Wagle
Light Play and Natural Stone Form a Community Space Anchored in Collective Memory
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A unique roof shard captures light, while natural stone and reinforced concrete create an engaging space for community interaction and memory exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
A light-filtering stair tunnel serves as a symbolic connection between memory and community engagement.
02
The building's roof shard is designed to contrast conventional linear forms, inviting curiosity.
03
Natural stone integrates the structure with its geographical context, enhancing local identity.
04
Reinforced concrete provides a raw aesthetic that reflects resilience amid historical conflict.
05
An interactive Memory Matrix fosters user participation in recounting personal and collective histories.

## Project Overview

Located in Casablanca, Morocco, the Conteneur de Mémoire serves as a library and exhibition space that addresses the interconnections between conflict, memory, and cultural identity. The design integrates the complex histories of the region with contemporary architectural practices, creating a structure that functions as a repository for shared narratives and experiences.

## Materiality and Context

The material selection throughout the project plays a significant role in communicating its thematic intentions. Reinforced concrete establishes structural integrity while reflecting the raw, unfinished nature of reconstruction in conflict-affected areas. Glass elements enhance transparency, allowing natural light to illuminate the spaces, symbolizing openness and fostering engagement between the interior and the city. Steel features signify resilience, while natural stone evokes a tactile connection to the local landscape, anchoring the building firmly within its geographic context.

## Spatial Organization

The spatial arrangement is strategically designed to enhance the user experience and accommodate various functions. The ground floor features restaurant spaces and a Memory Matrix, facilitating communal interaction and the sharing of stories. The first floor combines office spaces, classrooms, an exhibition area, and conference facilities, allowing for multidisciplinary engagement with memory and education. The library on the second floor serves as the central hub of research and reflection, reinforcing the project's focus on collective memory.

A notable architectural feature, the stair tunnel, offers a poignant experience through dynamic light play, symbolizing transformation and hope. Additionally, the Roof Shard introduces visual contrast with its angular form, encouraging engagement and dialogue with the urban fabric of Casablanca while providing strategic viewing points that connect past narratives with present realities.

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Celebrating Visionary Design: The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026

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Competition organisers

The Buildner Unbuilt Award 2026 celebrates visionary unbuilt architectural projects that explore creativity and innovation. Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide, the competition welcomes submissions 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).

With a total prize fund of €100,000, each category winner receives €20,000, alongside student prizes of €5,000 and a €10,000 Best Presentation Award. Winners will also be featured internationally and presented with the Continuum Trophy designed by Germans Ermičs.

Registration runs from 31 October 2025 to 23 September 2026, with submissions due by 20 October 2026 and results announced on 1 December 2026. More information is available at architecturecompetitions.com 

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 September 2026

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