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Reflective Stainless Steel and Textured Concrete Memorial in Natural Landscape

Author:
Gaia Kadmon
Reflective Stainless Steel and Textured Concrete Memorial in Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

With its angular concrete forms and reflective stainless steel accents seamlessly merging with the landscape, the memorial invites contemplation on memory and renewal, serving as a poignant space for reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective stainless steel integrates with the surrounding landscape, enhancing natural light.
02
Board-formed concrete enhances the tactile quality, resonating with the memorial's solemn theme.
03
Pathways guide visitors through varying perspectives, promoting personal reflection.
04
Grass elements grow within a grid system, symbolizing renewal and life amidst memory.
05
Angular openings frame the landscape, creating dynamic sightlines throughout the memorial.
The architectural project "Is it Green There Now" serves as a memorial that encourages reflection on themes of memory and renewal. Nestled within a thoughtfully selected landscape, the design intricately relates to its surroundings while promoting contemplation of the past, particularly regarding significant historical traumas.

The primary structure features abstract geometric forms, characterized by monolithic walls that create both barriers and contemplative spaces. Designed to provoke thought, it incorporates various pathways and viewpoints, leading visitors through an engaging experience that guides them between different spatial dimensions. This design ensures that every visitor's interaction with the memorial is unique, reinforcing the connection to the themes of loss and hope.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets this project apart is its intentional integration of landscape and architecture. The use of board-formed concrete not only provides durability but also serves as a neutral backdrop that resonates with the memorial’s solemn purpose. The textured surfaces of the concrete create an evocative tactile quality, engaging visitors on a sensory level.

Incorporating semi-gloss stainless steel accents enhances the reflective qualities of the structure, marrying the built form with the natural environment. The interaction of these materials allows for a visual dialogue between light and shadow, further enriching the visitor experience.

The introduction of grass as a growing medium within a grid system symbolizes growth and renewal. This juxtaposition of living elements against the concrete mass underscores the project’s message: while the past carries weight, life continues to persist and evolve.

Spatial Dynamics and Visitor Interaction

The design prioritizes spatial dynamism, with carefully considered sightlines and pathways that facilitate movement through the memorial. Visitors are encouraged to explore different perspectives, allowing individual interpretation of the space. This engagement transforms the memorial from a static monument into an active environment where personal reflection can occur.

Strategically placed openings frame views of the surrounding landscape, creating a harmonious connection between the interior and exterior. This relationship serves to reinforce the theme of continuity, where memory renews itself through interaction with nature.

The "Is it Green There Now" project exemplifies thoughtful architectural design that transcends mere functionality. It is an architectural representation of memory, growth, and healing, advancing the discourse on how spaces can foster reflection and remembrance.

Explore more details about the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented within this project to gain deeper insights into the design ideas and methodologies employed.
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Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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