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Translucent Glass Façade and Concrete Pathways Create a Reflective Space for Community Remembrance

Authors:
Julia Sampławska, Ewa Klimkiewicz, Emilia Piłaszewicz
Translucent Glass Façade and Concrete Pathways Create a Reflective Space for Community Remembrance

Project in-detail

With a transparent glass façade and meticulously designed concrete pathways, the memorial seamlessly integrates interactive elements, creating a contemplative space for community remembrance and education on the Baltic Way.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a transparent glass façade that enhances natural light and visibility.
02
Interactive photography stations encourage personal engagement with the memorial's themes.
03
Concrete pathways are specifically shaped to guide visitors through a narrative of remembrance.
04
Natural stone elements provide tactile connections to the historical significance of the site.
05
The structure's open hand-like form symbolizes unity and collective memory among the Baltic nations.
The Gate to Freedom serves as a memorial dedicated to the Baltic Way, a significant historical event that united the populations of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia in their pursuit of independence from Soviet rule. The architectural design emphasizes connectivity, remembrance, and community engagement, encapsulating the essence of unity in the context of contemporary architecture. This project is not only a commemorative space but also a functional hub for education and social interaction.

The memorial features a unique architectural form that conveys a sense of openness and accessibility. It is designed as a welcoming structure, symbolizing the journey toward freedom. The use of various materials, including concrete for durability and glass for transparency, enhances the memorial's presence within its surroundings. Natural stone elements on the pathways provide a tactile connection to the site, reinforcing a sense of place and history.

Innovative Design Approaches

One aspect that distinguishes the Gate to Freedom is its integration of interactive elements that foster engagement. The design includes photography stations, allowing visitors to capture their reflections within the space, linking personal narratives to the historic event. This engagement with the memorial seeks to create a personal connection and a shared experience among visitors.

Furthermore, the spatial organization within the memorial emphasizes a flow that encourages exploration. Key areas include an entrance hall for initial engagement, exhibition zones that present narratives related to the Baltic Way, a cinema hall for educational screenings, and social spaces for communal reflection. This layout promotes diverse interactions, ensuring that the memorial serves beyond mere remembrance.

Educational Functionality

The Gate to Freedom also functions as an educational facility, housing various exhibitions and documentary cinema experiences that detail the events of the Baltic Way. The integration of spaces intended for learning enhances the memorial's purpose as an informative resource for both local residents and visitors. Architectural design elements are crafted to facilitate movement through these spaces, guiding visitors naturally from one point to another while providing a cohesive narrative of the historical events observed.

The architecture of the memorial encourages continual use, ensuring that it remains a vital part of the community. The design encourages the embracing of history while guiding the conversation toward ongoing themes of freedom and unity. This blend of function and architectural intent is what makes the Gate to Freedom a notable example of contemporary memorial architecture.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural concepts behind this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, it is encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. Engaging with the various sections will provide additional insights into the architectural ideas that have shaped this important memorial.
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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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