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Reflective Pillars and Subterranean Pathways in a Community Commemoration Space

Authors:
Peter Castricone, Joseph Knight, Joseph Palmer, Katie VanderPutten, Kasia Bulkowski
Reflective Pillars and Subterranean Pathways in a Community Commemoration Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with reflective pillars and anchored by subterranean pathways, the memorial fosters community engagement and reflection on the historical journey of the Baltic nations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective pillars symbolize the unity and diversity of the Baltic nations.
02
The memorial features an underground exhibit space to enhance the visitor experience.
03
A processional pathway guides visitors through a historical narrative of freedom.
04
Landscaping includes native plant species to promote ecological sensitivity.
05
LED backlighting in the pillars dynamically represents evolving memories throughout the day.

## Project Overview

The Baltic Way Memorial is situated in a pivotal location between the Museum Plaza and the 11th November Embankment. The intent of the design is to create an inclusive space that connects the historical significance of the Baltic nations' struggle for independence with contemporary societal values. The architectural language encompasses themes of unity, diversity, strength, and wholeness, resulting in a memorial that facilitates public engagement and reflection.

### Spatial Strategy

The design incorporates several key elements that encourage interaction and introspection. The central **Plaza** serves as a communal gathering area, featuring a reflective pool and landscaped greenery that promote contemplation. A prominent **Memorial**, characterized by a series of colorful pillars, symbolizes the diversity of the individuals involved in the independence movement while fostering a sense of togetherness. A dedicated **Link** pathway narrates the transition from oppression to freedom, guiding visitors through distinct spatial experiences that enrich their understanding of the historical context.

### Materiality and Design Features

A careful selection of materials enhances the memorial’s functionality and emotional resonance. Concrete is the primary material for the main structure, signifying durability and resilience. Glass elements include frosted glazing and reflective surfaces, which promote transparency and a connection to the surrounding environment. Metal framing in the pillars reinforces strength, while wood is utilized in communal spaces to create a welcoming atmosphere. LED backlighting integrated into the pillars allows for dynamic visual experiences that evolve throughout the day.

Distinct features such as an underground exhibit provide immersive interactions with the historical narrative, allowing for a juxtaposition of intimate spaces against the expansive outdoor plaza. The **Amphitheater** configuration is designed for both community events and commemorative gatherings, reinforcing the site’s role as an educational and social hub. Thoughtful landscape integration with greenery enhances ecological sensitivity and deepens visitors' connection to nature.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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