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Light-Reflecting Glass Prisms Complementing Concrete Structure for Community Commemoration

Authors:
Michael Umbach, Nico Holthaus, Suna Yildiz
Light-Reflecting Glass Prisms Complementing Concrete Structure for Community Commemoration

Project in-detail

Comprising 2 million light-reflecting glass prisms set within a durable concrete framework, the memorial serves as a space for communal reflection and commemoration of historical unity in the Baltic states.
5 key facts about this project
01
Comprises approximately 2 million glass prisms that create dynamic light patterns throughout the space.
02
Features a dual exhibition area that contrasts somber reflections with hopeful narratives.
03
Utilizes an eco-friendly concrete mix designed for durability and minimal environmental impact.
04
Incorporates colors inspired by the Baltic flags, enhancing regional identity and recognition.
05
Designed to foster community engagement with integrated public gathering spaces surrounding the memorial.

### Project Overview
The Baltic Way Memorial is designed to commemorate the Baltic Way, a significant historical event in which two million individuals joined hands in a peaceful demonstration across the Baltic states in 1989. The memorial seeks to serve as a reminder of the unity and resilience of the Baltic nations. Located likely along a waterfront, the project aims to connect to historical narratives while promoting a public space for reflection and dialogue within its urban context.

### Spatial Structure and Interactivity
The design incorporates a multi-layered spatial strategy that enhances visitor engagement through carefully defined zones. The interior is divided into "dark exhibition" and "bright exhibition" areas, utilizing varying light conditions to evoke different emotional responses. The dark exhibition space engages visitors with the somber aspects of history, while the bright exhibition space fosters an optimistic outlook. The facade of the memorial, characterized by vibrant colors and triangular supports reminiscent of the Baltic flag, establishes a visual identity tied to regional heritage.

### Material Integration and Aesthetic Considerations
A distinctive aspect of the memorial is its selection of materials, which serve both structural and experiential purposes. The primary use of concrete conveys durability, while approximately 2 million glass prisms reflect light in dynamic ways, enhancing the visual experience throughout the day. Steel elements provide additional structural support and a striking contrast to the warmth of wood used in interior spaces. This material diversity enriches the visitor experience, facilitating varied interactions and making the memorial a living space for community engagement.

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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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