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Reflective Garden Crafted With Undulating Concrete and Timber Canopy For Communal Remembrance

Author:
Jordan Felber
Reflective Garden Crafted With Undulating Concrete and Timber Canopy For Communal Remembrance

Project in-detail

An undulating canopy of timber and concrete envelops a reflective garden that honors lives lost, creating an immersive space for communal remembrance and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates an undulating roof that mimics the natural landscape contours for improved acoustics and ambient lighting.
02
Native plant species are used in the memorial's landscaping, creating a direct connection to the site's ecosystem.
03
A central reflective garden features existing trees, emphasizing the integration of nature within the memorial's structure.
04
The structure's layout promotes a circular path, encouraging both solitary and communal experiences of remembrance.
05
Incorporating charred wooden shingles enhances the building's durability while offering a distinct aesthetic that integrates with the environment.
The architectural project at hand is a thoughtfully designed memorial dedicated to honoring the lives lost during the Sri Lankan Civil War. This project articulates the complex narratives of grief and remembrance while offering a reflective space for visitors. The design integrates naturally into its surrounding landscape, showcasing a commitment to both architectural integrity and environmental sensitivity.

The memorial serves a dual function: it not only commemorates a significant historical event but also acts as a place for personal reflection and communal gatherings. The architecture employs a circular layout, symbolizing unity and wholeness, inviting visitors to engage with the space and each other. As individuals traverse through the circular pathway, they encounter various elements designed to foster contemplation and a connection to nature.

A defining aspect of this architectural project is its unique roof design, which gently undulates in response to the natural topography. This form does not merely provide an aesthetic quality but fulfills important practical functions by optimizing natural light and minimizing noise pollution from nearby surroundings. The careful orientation promotes sunlight during winter, enhancing the visitor experience while remaining attuned to climatic conditions.

The selection of materials is critical to the identity of this memorial. Wood is prominently used in the construction, lending warmth and a tactile quality that resonates with the surrounding nature. Concrete elements are strategically positioned to offer stability and structural integrity without overwhelming the landscape. Reflective surfaces incorporated into the design create engaging interactions with sunlight and shadow, leading to a dynamic visual experience that evolves throughout the day and year.

The central feature of the memorial is the reflective garden, a space that capitalizes on the existing trees, allowing for a serene atmosphere where visitors can connect with nature. This garden is not only a place for solitude but also stands as a testament to the unity of life and remembrance. The pathways leading to and within the memorial are designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the space comfortably.

In addition to its commemorative function, the architectural design acknowledges the importance of education and community dialogue. Spaces for storytelling and gatherings can be integrated, providing visitors not only with a place to reflect on the past but also a platform for discussing the events that shaped their history.

Overall, this architectural project demonstrates a sensitive approach to memorialization, seamlessly incorporating design, materiality, and the environment into a coherent whole. It invites users to not only recognize the lives lost but also to engage with the living landscape surrounding them. For a comprehensive understanding of the project's architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of this remarkable memorial.
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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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