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Natural Stone and Green Roof Integrate with Circular Form in Memorial Space

Author:
Kevin Weiss
Natural Stone and Green Roof Integrate with Circular Form in Memorial Space

Project in-detail

Integrating a green roof and textured stone with a circular layout, the design serves as a tranquil memorial space that emphasizes community and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular layout promotes community interaction within the memorial space.
02
Green roof enhances biodiversity and aesthetic integration with the surroundings.
03
Light wells strategically allow natural illumination to permeate the interior.
04
Columbarium niches are designed for personalization with decorative elements.
05
The use of textured stone creates a tactile connection to the natural environment.
The project "Columbarium cum Limen" is an architectural design focused on providing a contemplative space that serves both as a memorial for the deceased and a gathering point for the living. The design emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature, creating an environment conducive to reflection and remembrance. The intent behind this project is to facilitate emotional connections while addressing the themes of life, death, and memory through spatial and material choices.

The central feature of the Columbarium is its circular courtyard, which acts as a focal point for visitors. The layout is arranged to promote interaction among individuals, encouraging a community-oriented approach to grief and memory. Surrounding the courtyard are columbarium niches, which are designed to hold the remains of the deceased. These niches allow for personal expression, enabling families to create a unique memorial for their loved ones. The careful organization of space and the integration of indoor and outdoor areas are crucial to the experience within the Columbarium.

The project’s design distinguishes itself through several unique approaches. The use of a green roof is one such aspect, integrating vegetation into the overall structure. This not only reduces the visual impact of the building but also contributes to environmental sustainability, enhancing biodiversity and promoting a sense of tranquility. The strategic placement of light wells throughout the design allows natural light to penetrate the interior, creating dynamic lighting conditions that change with the time of day, reinforcing the relationship between the building and its surroundings.

Another significant differentiator is the emphasis on communal spaces. The design includes areas for gatherings and memorial services, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in the grieving process. This aspect marks a departure from traditional columbarium designs, which often focus solely on individual niches without accommodating social interaction.

The materials selected for the project further enhance its connection to the landscape. Reinforced concrete provides the structural integrity necessary for the building while allowing for fluid forms. The use of glass in significant areas fosters transparency and openness, while stone elements contribute texture and longevity. Paths made of Sebring-Field gravel offer a tactile experience that links the interior spaces with the outdoor environment.

The combination of innovative design choices and careful material selection posits "Columbarium cum Limen" as a relevant example of contemporary memorial architecture. The project seeks to redefine how spaces of remembrance are conceived, turning them into places that foster community connection while respecting individual loss. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project to gain a deeper understanding of its conceptual underpinnings and innovative approaches.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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