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Reflective Concrete Ramp with Steel Supports in a Communal Public Space

Authors:
Zhi Wang, Feijiao Huo
Reflective Concrete Ramp with Steel Supports in a Communal Public Space
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A linear ramp with mirrored walls and concrete construction creates an immersive public space that reflects the spirit of unity and remembrance, serving as a communal area for cultural engagement and historical reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
A mirrored ramp visually simulates an infinite chain, enhancing the concept of unity.
02
The memorial integrates soft landscaping to create a harmonious balance between nature and structure.
03
Concrete and steel materials are used for durability while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
04
Elevated observation areas provide multiple viewpoints of the surrounding area and memorial.
05
The design encourages community interaction through designated gathering spaces and educational programs.

## Project Overview

The Baltic Way Memorial is situated in an urban context that commemorates the historical event of the Baltic Way, a peaceful protest in 1989 when approximately 2 million people joined hands across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. The design intent is to create a space that reenacts this monumental human chain while activating an underutilized area, fostering public engagement and cultural interaction.

### Spatial Arrangement and User Experience

The memorial features a linear ramp that guides visitors from ground level to an elevated platform. Mirrors are integrated along the sides of the ramp, producing a visual effect that evokes an endless chain of people, which serves to enhance the reflection on collective memory. This spatial strategy not only enriches the visitor experience but also promotes introspection regarding historical significance. The space is designed to support community activities, accommodating social gatherings, educational programs, and seasonal events, thereby ensuring that the memorial remains a vibrant public resource.

### Materiality and Integration with Context

Key materials employed in the memorial include concrete, glass, steel, grass, and wood. Concrete serves as a durable foundation, while glass mirrors amplify the visual narrative. Steel provides structural integrity, allowing for elegant design elements that minimize obstruction. Greenery introduces a softer contrast, promoting an inviting ambiance. Situated near urban landmarks and adjacent to a river, the design enhances connectivity with surrounding pathways, drawing visitors towards the waterfront and fostering a sense of place within the urban landscape. The thoughtful selection of materials and spatial organization reflects both the memorial's purpose and its integration into the city environment.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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