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Perforated Bronze Panels and Weathered Wood Create a Serene Memorial Space in Nature

Authors:
Elena Bushell, Daniel Silver
Perforated Bronze Panels and Weathered Wood Create a Serene Memorial Space in Nature

Project in-detail

Embedded within a tranquil wooded landscape, perforated bronze panels and weathered wood converge to form a reflective memorial space that fosters community connection and personal introspection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated bronze panels allow natural light to filter through, creating dynamic light patterns within the space.
02
The use of weathered wood reflects the surrounding environment and enhances the project's integration with nature.
03
Modular design accommodates personal memorials, enabling customization for individual experiences.
04
Elevated structures promote local biodiversity by minimizing ecological disruption beneath the buildings.
05
Winding pathways guide visitors through the landscape, encouraging exploration and contemplation.
Uz Aizsaule is an architectural project that represents the intersection of nature and remembrance. Located in a wooded area of Latvia, the design serves as a memorial space that honors the memory of those who have passed while simultaneously celebrating the beauty of the natural environment. The project emphasizes the importance of community and connections, providing a serene setting for both individual reflection and collective commemorative activities.

The fundamental function of Uz Aizsaule is to serve as a sanctuary for remembrance and contemplation. The design incorporates various architectural elements that facilitate a respectful interaction between visitors and their surroundings. The primary structures are constructed from wood, allowing for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Perforated bronze panels create niches for memorials, filtering light and forming a delicate interplay between interior and exterior spaces.

One of the distinctive features of this project is its use of adaptable architectural forms. Each unit can house individual personal memorials, ensuring a tailored experience for visitors. The site layout promotes exploration with winding paths that guide users through the natural landscape, encouraging engagement with both the architecture and the environment. Elevated structures minimize environmental disruption, allowing flora and fauna to thrive while creating a fluid relationship between built and natural spaces.

The project integrates various materials, including concrete for foundational elements, gravel for pathways, and glass in select areas for transparency and light modulation. The overall design reflects an understanding of local cultural narratives, drawing on Latvian folklore to instill a sense of belonging and continuity within the memorial context.

Community engagement is an essential aspect of this architectural endeavor. The design facilitates memorial activities, providing a space where individuals can openly share their memories. uz Aizsaule aims to create a meaningful environment where personal and communal experiences intertwine.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, a deeper review of Uz Aizsaule will provide valuable insights into its architectural decisions and conceptual framework.
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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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