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Translucent Glass Facade Merging Concrete Strength with Historic Reflection in a Commemorative Public Space

Authors:
Chu Tung Lai, Yat Long Yeung
Translucent Glass Facade Merging Concrete Strength with Historic Reflection in a Commemorative Public Space

Project in-detail

A nuanced blend of transparent glass and concrete, this memorial integrates interactive exhibition spaces with thoughtful circulation paths, inviting communal reflection on the historical significance of the Baltic Way.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a periscope-inspired design to enhance visual connections with the surrounding environment.
02
Incorporates interactive exhibition spaces that facilitate community engagement and historical reflection.
03
Features a blend of concrete and glass, emphasizing both solidity and transparency in construction.
04
Integrates landscaped public areas that promote social interaction alongside the memorial.
05
Employs thoughtful circulation paths that guide visitors through varying light and shadow experiences.

### Overview
Located in a prominent urban area, "Periscope" is designed to commemorate the Baltic Way, a significant civil rights movement. The project aims to redefine the typical memorial experience by fostering a profound relationship between visitors and their surroundings. This installation serves as both a tribute to historical events and a space for personal reflection, integrating elements that invite engagement and contemplation.

### Conceptual Framework
The structural design of "Periscope" emphasizes transparency and reflection, inviting visitors to navigate the interplay of light and space as they engage with the historical narratives presented. The configuration encourages individuals to immerse themselves in their surroundings, promoting a deeper understanding of memory and temporal shifts. By challenging traditional memorial formats, the design seeks to enhance the visitor experience and stimulate ongoing discussion about the past and its relevance to the present.

### Materiality and Construction
The selection of materials is a key aspect of the project's design philosophy.
- **Concrete** provides a sturdy foundation while contributing to a minimalist aesthetic.
- **Glass** is prominently featured in the façade, facilitating visual connections with the environment and strengthening the themes of reflection and transparency.
- **Steel** offers structural support and artisanal detailing, enhancing the modernity of the composition.
- **Landscaping** incorporates natural materials that foster harmony between the built environment and the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless transition from structure to nature.

Notable design features include a linear architectural form reminiscent of a periscope, which connects various functional areas on and below ground level. Clear circulation paths guide visitors through spaces that oscillate between light and shadow, symbolizing the journey from remembrance to active engagement with history. Dedicated exhibition areas facilitate interaction with historical artifacts, enriching the visitor experience through thoughtful layout and accessibility.

An external plaza serves as a communal gathering space, designed to encourage social interaction while integrating seating, greenery, and open areas for reflection and relaxation. The overall design not only addresses memorialization but also actively involves the community, ensuring that the space remains a relevant and engaging part of the urban fabric.

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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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