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Stones of Memory in a Communicative Space

Author:
Mohamed Elkurdi
Stones of Memory in a Communicative Space

Project in-detail

Crafted from stones collected from existing memorials, the design creates a communicative space that encourages shared narratives of collective grief while redefining traditional memorialization.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using stones sourced from various existing memorials to symbolize unity in remembrance.
02
Features a flexible design that allows the space to adapt to changing narratives and functions over time.
03
Incorporates live display screens for real-time interaction and storytelling by visitors.
04
Emphasizes reutilization of historical materials to connect past experiences with present use.
05
Focuses on fostering community engagement through shared narratives of collective grief.

The Non-Memorial V.2.8 offers a fresh perspective on how memory can be expressed through design. It presents a space that moves away from traditional forms of memorialization, prioritizing a fluid relationship with history. This concept allows memory to interact dynamically with everyday life, encouraging people to engage thoughtfully with past events while adapting to present needs. The design invites users to reflect on historical narratives without being confined to the roles that typical memorials impose.

Dynamic Memory Integration

The Non-Memorial Manifesto suggests that labeling spaces as museums or memorials can limit their significance. The design shifts this conventional view by treating memory as something that can grow and change over time. Instead of being tied strictly to specific locations or events, memory becomes a layer that enriches the everyday experience. This flexible approach encourages diverse interactions and recognizes that the relevance of memory goes far beyond mere proximity to history.

Volatile Perception of Monuments

Public sentiments toward monuments often change rapidly. The design reflects this reality by emphasizing the need for adaptability. A memorial should not be fixed; it should evolve in response to cultural shifts and community needs. By focusing on the idea of reutilization rather than preservation, the design can honor historical memories while also allowing for new narratives to emerge. This versatile approach ensures that the significance of the space is maintained, even as it adapts to contemporary contexts.

Collective Grief and Communicative Spaces

Central to the concept is "The Last Memorial," which aims to collect and express grief linked to various wars and genocides. This initiative enables a space where individuals can share their thoughts and experiences, creating a community around collective memories. The design incorporates materials taken from existing memorials, symbolizing a sense of unity among different histories. This cohesive structure serves as a new point for reflection, emphasizing shared experiences rather than isolated narratives.

Interactive Engagement

The design also includes live display screens that promote ongoing dialogue about memory. This feature allows visitors to engage with the stories being told, creating an environment where discussion and reflection can happen naturally. By allowing memory to be active and interactive, it breaks the idea of a static remembrance, encouraging community involvement and connection. The focus is on the experience of memory as a living part of the space, influencing how people relate to their history.

The architecture invites visitors to explore and reflect upon memory in a contemporary context, creating connections that resonate beyond the past. It blends memory and function, fostering a relationship with history that feels relevant and immediate.

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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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