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Reflective Pools and Natural Stone in a Contemplative Columbarium Design

Authors:
Wiktoria Ciszak, Karolina Kozłowska
Reflective Pools and Natural Stone in a Contemplative Columbarium Design

Project in-detail

Natural stone walls intertwine with reflective pools to create a contemplative space for remembrance and reflection within a thoughtfully designed columbarium.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural stone walls are integrated with reflective pools to enhance the contemplative atmosphere.
02
A winding pathway symbolizes life’s transitions and guides visitors through the space.
03
Carefully positioned niches provide privacy while maintaining natural light and views.
04
Innovative irrigation systems sustain a lush environment, symbolizing continuity in remembrance.
05
Wood elements introduce warmth and contrast within the minimalist design approach.
The "Memory Rock" architectural project is situated within the Forest Cemetery in Riga, Latvia. This design integrates the themes of life and death through carefully structured spaces aimed at fostering reflection and remembrance. The project consists of distinct levels, with the upper level serving as a transitional pathway leading to various contemplative areas. These elements create a cohesive relationship with the surrounding landscape, encouraging visitors to engage thoughtfully with the space.

Spatial Organization and Function

The architectural design features an upper level designed as a meandering path that guides visitors toward the columbarium, while a lower level accommodates several contemplation areas. These spatial divisions allow for a layered experience, offering visitors a serene journey through the site. The columbarium includes niches for urn storage, cleverly designed to provide privacy while maintaining a connection to the natural environment through strategic openings and views. Additionally, designated contemplation areas are included for visitors to reflect and connect their thoughts, further enhancing the project's purpose.

Unique Design Approaches and Features

The "Memory Rock" project distinguishes itself by utilizing a winding pathway that symbolizes life’s transitions. This design approach integrates elements such as reflective pools that border the path, creating an atmosphere conducive to contemplation. Water features symbolize both purity and the cyclical nature of life and death, subtly enhancing the emotional experience for visitors.

The architectural use of specific materials further contributes to the project’s uniqueness. Concrete, natural stone, wood, glass, and metal are skillfully employed to create a cohesive aesthetic that resonates with the natural landscape. Natural light is strategically introduced through openings, allowing different experiences throughout the day while maintaining privacy in the columbarium.

Innovative irrigation and floral systems operate to sustain a lush environment that symbolizes continuity and remembrance, reinforcing the project's overarching theme. This thoughtful integration of landscape and structure serves to enrich visitor interactions with the site.

Exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of the "Memory Rock" project reveals further insights into its thoughtful approach and execution. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into these elements to understand the nuances of the design and the architectural ideas behind this meaningful project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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