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Reflective Glass and Water Features Enhancing Communal Spaces in Baltic Memorial

Authors:
Parisa Mohammadi, Hadi Shamshiri, Mehdi Shamshiri
Reflective Glass and Water Features Enhancing Communal Spaces in Baltic Memorial
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Reflective glass surfaces and flowing water features create an interactive memorial that honors the shared history and struggle for freedom among the Baltic States, serving as a focal point for public engagement and remembrance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with reflective glass to symbolize unity and transparency.
02
Incorporates a dynamic water feature that promotes tranquility and reflection.
03
Features a Liberty Map to provide historical context and engagement.
04
Sustainably sourced materials enhance environmental sensitivity and durability.
05
Strategically situated to foster urban interaction and community connectivity.

### Overview
The Baltic Way Memorial is situated on 11th November Street and serves to honor the historic peaceful demonstration of two million people from the Baltic States—Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia—against Soviet rule. The memorial signifies unity, peace, and freedom, integrating both commemorative and interactive elements that engage the public while reflecting the values of the Baltic Way movement.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement
The memorial design incorporates several key features that facilitate a dynamic user experience. Central to the concept is the Union Gate, which employs reflective materials to symbolize human connections forged during the demonstration. Nearby, the Peace Passage features a flowing water element that represents cleansing and renewal, enhancing the site's natural environment. The Liberty Map, strategically positioned, provides a cartographic representation of the Baltic States, encouraging visitors to engage with the historical narrative of freedom and independence. This blend of elements promotes active participation, allowing visitors to connect with the memorial's significance on a personal level.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations
The choice of materials in the memorial reflects a commitment to both durability and aesthetic expression. Glass is prominently used in the Union Gate to evoke transparency and reflection, while concrete provides structural integrity. Water elements within the Peace Passage not only serve visual purposes but also contribute to environmental cooling. Decorative accents, crafted from metal and composite panels, add historical texture, while wood introduces warmth to seating areas, enhancing user comfort. The design is tailored to respond to seasonal changes and support community events, exemplifying an adaptive approach to public spaces while promoting sustainability through the careful selection of materials.

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

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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?

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