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Reflective Surfaces and Symbolic Walls in a Latvian Memorial Space

Authors:
Jo Janssen, Maud van Oerle, Floor Verhaak, Mingyu Kim
Reflective Surfaces and Symbolic Walls in a Latvian Memorial Space

Project in-detail

A central wall of stamped concrete contrasts with a rough-textured surface, creating a unique dialogue between life and death while providing a contemplative setting within a Latvian memorial space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central wall features a two-sided design symbolizing life and death.
02
Reflective surface invites personal contemplation of existence.
03
Adjacent tree serves as a natural symbol of life’s cyclical journey.
04
Layout includes designated areas for introspection and gathering.
05
Inspired by ancient Latvian ash urn cemetery practices.

The design is based on the concept of Janus, the ancient Roman god who represents beginnings and transitions. Placed in an environment that promotes contemplation, the structure serves several functions while encouraging visitors to reflect on the dual nature of life and death. The design aims to engage individuals emotionally, inviting them to consider their own existence through various architectural elements that embody these complex themes.

Design Concept

A central wall is the main feature of the design. It serves both as a boundary and a bridge between the ideas of life and death. This wall has two different surfaces which convey contrasting themes. One side uses a polished surface of stamped concrete, inviting visitors to reflect on their lives. The other side has a rough texture, encouraging a more direct interaction with the reality of mortality.

Symbolic Elements

An intriguing feature of the design is a tree positioned next to the wall that represents death. This natural form symbolizes the passage to another realm for the deceased. Integrating organic elements in the design softens the hard architectural lines. This adds visual interest and reinforces the concept of life’s cyclical nature, creating a dialogue between the built and natural environments.

Spatial Arrangement

The overall layout includes areas for gathering and quiet reflection. These spaces are thoughtfully arranged to encourage interaction between visitors and the themes presented. They provide opportunities for moments of pause and contemplation, suggesting a journey through the transient nature of life. The arrangement enhances immersion, allowing individuals to engage with their personal thoughts and emotions.

Historical Context

The design draws inspiration from the ash urn cemeteries of 1st millennium BC in Latvia. This historical reference adds depth to the narrative, connecting modern architectural approaches with ancient practices of memorialization. The relationship between the past and present enriches the visitor experience, providing a broader understanding of the themes of life and death.

The reflective qualities of the wall prompt visitors to think about their existence. The contrasting textures create an emotional resonance, fostering a dialogue between different elements within the space.

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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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