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Reflections of Memory in Supermatte Black Facades

Authors:
Alpamys Kemelbekov, Sadyr Khabukhayev
Reflections of Memory in Supermatte Black Facades
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Supermatte black facades create an immersive experience, capturing reflections of memory and loss in a contemplative memorial space dedicated to honoring historical tragedies.
5 key facts about this project
01
Supermatte black facades enhance the visual concept of void and emptiness.
02
Reflective surfaces create a dynamic interaction between light and visitor presence.
03
The design aims to address collective memory and historical loss.
04
Dark exterior contrasts with luminous interior to facilitate introspection.
05
Visitors encounter their reflections, connecting personal experiences to shared narratives.

The design "Beauty in Void" explores themes of loss and memory within a space that serves as a memorial. It invites visitors to connect with feelings of grief and resilience. By focusing on the concept of the void, the design addresses historical tragedies, creating an environment for reflection and understanding through its unique treatment of space and light.

Conceptual Framework

The central theme of the void manifests through dark facades that symbolize the weight of emptiness experienced during times of grief. The surfaces utilize a supermatte coating that creates a black hole effect, visually reinforcing the narrative of absorption and nothingness. This choice in design helps to establish a distinct contrast between the outside world and what individuals experience inside the space, prompting deeper contemplation.

Spatial Dynamics

Inside, the design features light-reflecting facets that create a dynamic interaction between light and space. As visitors navigate through the area, their reflections intermingle with the ambient light, producing a continually shifting visual experience. This element encourages personal connection, allowing individuals to see their presence within the broader context of collective memory and history.

Emotional Resonance

The contrast between dark exteriors and bright interiors highlights the essence of life amid tragedy. Each visitor is encouraged to confront their emotions surrounding loss while paying homage to the lives that contributed to the shared narrative. This thoughtful design approach creates a rich experience, fostering a dialogue between memory, presence, and resilience.

The reflective surfaces within the interior capture shimmering images, serving as reminders of past lives. This allows the space to become a living tribute to loss and remembrance, where memories coexist with the present, inviting exploration and contemplation.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete 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). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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