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Translucent Glass Panels and Textured Concrete Frame in a Community-Centric Memorial Space

Authors:
Bhumipat Mekmullika, Monsicha Rungchawannont
Translucent Glass Panels and Textured Concrete Frame in a Community-Centric Memorial Space

Project in-detail

Translucent glass panels seamlessly integrate with a robust concrete frame, creating an interactive memorial space that invites community engagement while honoring a pivotal moment in history.
5 key facts about this project
01
The memorial incorporates translucent glass panels that allow natural light to permeate the space, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
02
Textured concrete elements provide a tactile contrast to the smooth surfaces, enhancing visitor interaction with the structure.
03
Engravings of handprints on the memorial wall connect visitors directly to the historical event, fostering a sense of personal engagement.
04
Dedicated areas for community gatherings encourage participation and dialogue, making the memorial a living space rather than a static tribute.
05
The design subtly adapts to the surrounding landscape, ensuring a harmonious integration with the urban environment.
The Baltic Wall Memorial, situated in Tallinn, Estonia, serves as an architectural tribute to a pivotal historical event known as the Baltic Way. This demonstration, which took place on August 23, 1989, saw approximately two million people form a human chain across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania to peacefully protest against Soviet occupation. The memorial's design resonates deeply with themes of unity, resistance, and collective memory, positioning it as a vital component of the cultural landscape in Estonia.

This architectural project represents more than a mere commemoration; it embodies a space where history and community intertwine. The memorial encourages engagement, reflection, and a sense of continuity between the past and present. Its functionality extends beyond remembering a historical event to fostering dialogue and education among visitors, thus ensuring the legacy of the Baltic Way remains pertinent to future generations.

At the heart of the Baltic Wall Memorial is a continuous plane that invites interaction. The design cleverly integrates various functional spaces that cater to both individual reflection and communal gatherings. The entrance area is welcoming, facilitating a seamless transition into the site while respecting the surrounding urban context. Visitors encounter public areas that serve as exhibition spaces, providing insight into the historical narrative of the Baltic Way and fostering community awareness. Moreover, facilities such as a cafeteria encourage people to gather, socialize, and interact with the memorial on a practical level, normalizing it as part of everyday life.

One of the unique aspects of this design is its thoughtful selection of materials. The use of translucent glass not only enhances visibility and light within the structure but also symbolizes the fragility of freedom and the importance of transparency in society. This material serves to create a dialogue with the visitors as they engage with the memorial, reflecting upon both personal and collective histories. In contrast, the sturdy concrete foundation ensures the longevity of the memorial, standing firm against the test of time while providing a visual and tactile contrast to the delicate nature of the glass.

The incorporation of wood within the design adds a layer of warmth, inviting visitors to sit and engage with the spaces comfortably. This element also enhances the memorial’s inviting atmosphere, which contrasts the more solemn aspects of remembrance. The overall spatial organization includes zones that are carefully crafted to ensure a fluid experience, allowing visitors to navigate between areas designated for contemplation, education, and social interactions.

Additionally, the design promotes a sense of connectivity through its layout. Visitors can trace their hands along the wall, connecting with the engravings that represent the handprints of past demonstrators. This tactile interaction creates a direct link to the individuals who participated in the Baltic Way, reinforcing the themes of solidarity and collective action. The memorial does not simply function as a static reminder of the past; it actively engages visitors in a living narrative that unfolds with each interaction.

The Baltic Wall Memorial is characterized by an innovative design approach that breaks away from traditional memorial conventions. By encouraging interaction and providing functional spaces for gathering, learning, and reflection, it challenges preconceived notions of what memorials should be. The incorporation of environmental considerations in its architectural design further establishes a harmonious balance with the surrounding landscape, ensuring that the structure feels integrated into the setting rather than an imposition upon it.

In essence, the Baltic Wall Memorial stands as a significant architectural achievement that not only honors a momentous historical event but also serves as a dynamic space for community engagement and education. This project encourages exploration and invites visitors to reflect upon the lessons of the past while considering the implications for the future. For those seeking a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shaped this memorial, further exploration of the project presentation is highly recommended.
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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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