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Reflective Surfaces And Water Features Enhance Community Engagement In A Concrete And Glass Memorial

Author:
Andre Halim
Reflective Surfaces And Water Features Enhance Community Engagement In A Concrete And Glass Memorial

Project in-detail

Designed with reflective glass panels and serene water features, the memorial serves as a contemplative space that invites community engagement while honoring the narratives of social injustices in Indonesia.
5 key facts about this project
01
The memorial integrates reflective glass panels that create dynamic visual interactions with the surrounding environment.
02
Water features are strategically placed to encourage contemplation and symbolize renewal throughout the site.
03
Interactive installations present historical narratives, allowing visitors to engage with the memorial on a personal level.
04
Landscaping elements promote biodiversity while enhancing the tranquil atmosphere within the memorial grounds.
05
Concrete pathways are designed to lead visitors on a journey through shared history, fostering community engagement and reflection.
The architectural project titled "Archeology of Now" serves as a memorial dedicated to the victims of social injustices in Indonesia, specifically reflecting on the country's complex political landscape. Situated in Jakarta, a city marked by historical events that have shaped its identity, this memorial is both a tribute to those who suffered and a space for collective reflection and learning. The design encapsulates the struggle for democracy and human rights, creating a meaningful connection between the past and present.

The main function of this memorial is to provide a site where individuals can engage with the narratives of Indonesia's historical challenges. It facilitates a process of remembrance, understanding, and open dialogue about the importance of social justice. Designed as an inclusive space, the memorial aims to attract a diverse array of visitors, encouraging them to contemplate and discuss the significant events that have influenced Indonesian society.

The design of "Archeology of Now" is characterized by a thoughtful consideration of spatial organization, guiding visitors through a curated experience. Key pathways lead to various focal points, promoting exploration and introspection. The circulation routes are deliberately designed to create a sense of flow, allowing visitors to seamlessly transition between different areas of the memorial. The decision to use open spaces alongside more private contemplative nooks enhances the atmosphere of reflection.

Materials play a crucial role in conveying the memorial's themes of strength and resilience. Concrete has been widely used for pathways and structural elements, representing permanence and the challenges overcome through history. Glass features throughout the project are strategically placed to optimize light while serving as a metaphor for transparency and truth, emphasizing the need for openness in discussing history. Steel framing supports various elements of the memorial and implies durability in the face of adversity. Additionally, landscaping elements integrate greenery throughout the site, providing a restorative quality that encourages visitors to find solace and peace in nature.

Unique design approaches employed in this project significantly enhance its overall impact. The inclusion of water features creates a calming environment, inviting contemplation and symbolizing the cleansing of memories and experiences. Interactive installations, such as information plaques and artistic representations, foster an educational dimension that engages visitors, prompting them to learn about the sociopolitical context of the memorial. These installations ensure that the memorial is not just a passive space but a dynamic platform for conversation.

Another notable aspect of the design is the incorporation of art murals that depict significant historical events. These visual narratives serve to bridge the gap between the written word and personal interpretation, allowing visitors to engage with history on a more visceral level. The architectural design also emphasizes the importance of communal spaces where discussions can take place, nurturing a sense of collective identity among visitors as they navigate through the site.

Positioned within Jakarta, "Archeology of Now" stands as a significant architectural intervention in a locale rich with historical complexity. The site itself invites exploration and encourages visitors to confront their shared past as a means of shaping a more equitable future. The memorial's thoughtful integration of design elements promotes engagement with issues of democracy and human rights, compelling visitors to reflect on their roles in continuing dialogues around these vital topics.

This project not only contributes to the architectural landscape of Jakarta but also serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and addressing social injustices. As you explore the project presentation, be sure to dive deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that inform this reflective space. The design of "Archeology of Now" exemplifies how architecture can create meaningful connections to history while providing a powerful forum for discourse and understanding.
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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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