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Seasonal Imagery and Natural Light Enhance the Experience of Insulated Masonry Reflection Spaces

Author:
Anthony Yan
Seasonal Imagery and Natural Light Enhance the Experience of Insulated Masonry Reflection Spaces

Project in-detail

With an elliptical layout and seasonal imagery woven into insulated masonry, this columbarium integrates natural light and green elements to create a reflective space for remembrance.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates deciduous trees to symbolize the passage of life.
02
Features an elliptical layout that enhances accessibility and flow.
03
Utilizes insulated masonry for thermal efficiency and durability.
04
Incorporates seasonal imagery on the façade to reflect nature’s changes.
05
Design includes removable shelves within niches for personalization.
The Riga Columbarium is a carefully designed architectural project located in Riga, Latvia, intended to serve as a memorial space for the deceased. This structure is specifically designed to house 490 urns, providing a tranquil environment for remembrance and reflection. The design emphasizes the relationship between nature and architecture, fostering a contemplative atmosphere for visitors as they engage with themes of loss and the passage of time.

The building features a two-story layout with a prominent atrium that facilitates natural light and enhances the experience of the space. Alongside the urn niches, the design includes courtyards that incorporate deciduous trees, linking the structure to the cyclical nature of life. The architectural approach resonates with visitors, creating a sense of connection between the act of remembrance and the surrounding natural landscape.

Unique Architectural Approaches

One distinctive aspect of the Riga Columbarium is its integration of natural elements within the design. The inclusion of cross windows facing the south allows for ample light, contributing to the serene ambiance while emphasizing the seasonal changes through landscaped courtyards. The incorporation of a prominent tree at the southern end of the columbarium symbolizes the transience of life, serving as a visual and emotional anchor for visitors.

The project’s elliptical floor plan not only enhances accessibility but also fosters an unobstructed flow through the space, allowing visitors to navigate seamlessly between individual niches and communal areas. The dimensions of the urn niches—85 cm square and 100 cm tall—are thoughtfully designed, complemented by removable shelves and frosted tempered glass for an elevated aesthetic.

Unique Design Features

The Riga Columbarium distinguishes itself through its thematic exploration of life's impermanence. The imagery representing the four seasons on the façade serves to remind visitors of the continuous cycle of life, while the strategic use of materials, such as insulated masonry walls and concrete, ensures durability and thermal efficiency. The building is both a commemorative space and a tangible representation of memory and existence, aligning the architecture with the emotional needs of its users.

The overall design reflects a contemporary approach, thoughtfully merging structural functionality with a deep respect for the environment and the rituals associated with mourning. Each element, from the interplay of light to the choice of materials, is methodically incorporated to enhance the visitor experience.

For a more comprehensive understanding of this architectural project, including its plans, sections, and design details, it is advisable to explore the project presentation and the various architectural ideas that form the basis of the Riga Columbarium.
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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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