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Pneumatic Structures and Plastic Film Create Engaging Public Space for Commemoration

Authors:
KESTUTIS LUPEIKIS, JUSTAS JANKAUSKAS
Pneumatic Structures and Plastic Film Create Engaging Public Space for Commemoration

Project in-detail

Employing pneumatic structures and plastic film, the memorial creates an interactive space that commemorates the collective spirit of the Baltic Way, inviting public engagement and historical reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes lightweight plastic film for its primary structure, enhancing transparency and lightness.
02
Incorporates flexible plastic connectors to allow movement and adaptability within the design.
03
Features spheres that symbolize unity, representing the collective spirit of the Baltic Way protest.
04
Integrates renewable energy sources, including solar and wind power, into the architectural framework.
05
Design promotes public interaction through an exhibition space dedicated to historical education.

## Overview
The Baltic Way Memorial is situated within the urban fabric of the Baltic states, honoring the historic 1989 protest characterized by a human chain that unified Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania in their pursuit of freedom. Designed to reflect a narrative of community, history, and resilience, the memorial serves as a focal point for remembrance and education regarding civil rights activism in the region.

### Spatial Strategy
The design employs an amorphous arrangement of spherical volumes, symbolizing the collective strength and unity of the population. The integration of flexible plastic connectors allows these spheres to be filled with lighter-than-air gases, enhancing the structure's lightness and ethereal presence. This spatial strategy not only embodies the spirit of the people but also fosters a dynamic environment that invites exploration and interaction. Open and accessible spaces on the ground floor prioritize public engagement, while an exhibition hall facilitates educational programs centered on the historical context of the Baltic Way.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The selection of materials plays a crucial role in the memorial's design narrative. Lightweight Texlon plastic film is utilized for its transparency and ease of shaping into the spherical forms, while flexible plastic connectors provide the necessary structural integrity. Pneumatic volume materials contribute to the memorial's energy efficiency by harnessing wind and solar power, emphasizing a commitment to sustainability. Together, these materials not only fulfill functional requirements but also adapt responsively to the environment, ensuring longevity and minimal ecological impact. The design integrates renewable energy systems, highlighting a progressive approach to architectural sustainability within the memorial's framework.

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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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