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Reflective Water Mirror Integrated with Natural Stone and Concrete in a Circular Columbarium

Authors:
Helena Ziegler, Freja Palerius, Anders Nilsson, Peter Devery
Reflective Water Mirror Integrated with Natural Stone and Concrete in a Circular Columbarium

Project in-detail

Featuring a reflective water mirror at its core and constructed from natural stone and concrete, this circular columbarium emerges as a serene space for contemplation and remembrance within the tranquil surroundings of the Riga Forest Cemetery.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a centrally placed reflective water mirror that enhances the tranquil atmosphere.
02
A circular layout promotes a sense of unity and continuity in the design.
03
Natural stone and concrete were selected for their durability and emotional resonance.
04
Accessible ramps and stairs create a seamless transition for visitors throughout the space.
05
The project integrates harmoniously with the surrounding forest landscape, creating a reflective enclosure for visitors.
The architectural project titled "Reflection" is a thoughtful columbarium designed for the Riga Forest Cemetery in Latvia. This design delicately navigates the intricate relationship between memory, nature, and the cycles of life. At its core, the project embodies a serene space for contemplation, memorialization, and community engagement, blending harmoniously with its lush forest surroundings.

The columbarium, a structure that houses urns, is circular in form, symbolizing the interconnectedness of life and death. This design choice not only fosters a sense of unity and continuity but also encourages visitors to reflect on their own experiences and connections with nature. The arrangement of niches is meticulously planned to create an inviting atmosphere where families and friends can gather in remembrance of loved ones who have passed. The central feature of this project is a water mirror that captures the surrounding natural beauty, enhancing the reflective quality of the space. This element serves as a focal point, encouraging contemplation and spiritual connection while reinforcing the project's overarching themes of renewal and reflection.

The significance of material selection in this project cannot be overstated. The use of stone and concrete ensures durability, while also symbolizing the passage of time and the grounding of memory. Stone, with its capacity to weather and age, offers a tactile connection to history, representing both permanence and transience. Concrete, chosen for its versatility, provides structural support while allowing for creative expression in form and texture. These materials are carefully integrated, ensuring that the columbarium not only stands the test of time but also invites emotional resonance through their physical presence.

A vital aspect of the design is the spatial organization that promotes both individual reflection and communal experience. Accessibility is a key consideration, as visitors can naturally flow through the columbarium via ramps or stairs, enhancing their interaction with the space. As one navigates through the building, the thoughtfully arranged niches allow visitors to pause, engage, and connect with their surroundings. The columbarium is more than a simple structure; it is a welcoming environment where historical narratives and personal stories intertwine.

The unique design approach of this project lies in its ability to fuse architectural precision with an introspective ambiance. By intertwining natural elements, such as the water mirror and the surrounding forest, the design transcends conventional memorial spaces, providing a holistic experience that encourages personal reflection. The circular form not only symbolizes eternity but also offers visual cohesion, integrating the landscape seamlessly into the architectural narrative.

In exploring this architectural project further, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs, to gain deeper insights into the intentions and ideas that shaped this columbarium. The "Reflection" project stands as a powerful representation of how architecture can facilitate connection, memory, and community through well-considered design. It invites those who visit not only to remember but also to dialogue with the natural world and with one another in a space meant for solace and understanding.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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