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Translucent Sphere Created With Sustainable Materials in a Reflective Memorial Space

Authors:
Michael Ledbetter, Alireza Fatemi, Elmira Shojaei, Danielle Baker
Translucent Sphere Created With Sustainable Materials in a Reflective Memorial Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with a translucent sphere of photovoltaic glass and surrounded by cascading water features, the memorial creates an engaging space that honors the memories of past genocides while promoting reflection and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a central sphere constructed from photovoltaic glass, allowing the structure to generate its own energy.
02
Interactive water features surround the memorial, offering a sensory experience that enhances reflection.
03
Ginkgo Biloba trees are strategically planted to symbolize endurance and healing within the memorial space.
04
Embedded QR codes provide visitors with access to historical narratives and educational content related to specific genocides.
05
The use of algae in the water features creates a living component that contributes to the memorial’s environmental sustainability.
The project at hand is an architectural design dedicated to commemorating the impact of past genocides, located in Chinguacousy Park. This memorial represents a significant effort to honor the memories of those affected by historical atrocities while providing a space for reflection, education, and dialogue. Architecturally, the design integrates multiple elements that serve both symbolic and functional purposes.

The central feature of this project is a monumental sphere that serves as the focal point for the memorial. This sphere is thoughtfully constructed with a combination of materials, including glass, stainless steel, and black granite, creating a contrast between the reflective, airy quality of the glass and the solid, enduring nature of the granite. The use of photovoltaic glass in the structure allows the monument to harness solar energy, thereby promoting sustainability while supporting the interactive features incorporated into the design.

The memorial’s design emphasizes interactivity, enabling visitors to engage with the installation on multiple levels. Water features are strategically placed around the sphere, symbolizing renewal and life. This elemental inclusion enhances the sensory experience, inviting visitors not only to observe but also to interact with the space. The cascading water serves a dual purpose, functioning both as a tranquil backdrop for contemplation and as a kinetic element that draws attention to the monument's intricate design.

Central to the educational aspect of the memorial is the incorporation of QR codes embedded in various parts of the installation. These codes provide visitors with access to narratives and historical accounts of specific genocides, making the memorial not merely a site of remembrance but also a platform for learning and engagement. This unique approach to disseminating knowledge is pivotal, as it transforms the space into a living educational tool that adapts to the needs of its audience.

The careful selection of landscaping elements further enhances the memorial's design. Ginkgo Biloba trees are purposefully chosen for their symbolic significance as well as their resilience, allowing them to thrive in the park setting. Their presence adds a layer of meaning to the memorial, connecting nature with the themes of endurance and healing. The surrounding landscape is thoughtfully designed to facilitate movement and reflection, with walking paths that guide visitors through the site and encourage a contemplative pace.

Sustainable practices are a key component of the project's architectural framework. The integration of materials such as algae within the water features highlights an innovative approach to design that not only focuses on aesthetics but also on environmental responsibility. This aspect supports the broader aim of fostering a space that respects both memory and nature, ultimately creating a harmonious coexistence.

In exploring the architectural plans, sections, and the overall design of the project, one can gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas that inform its execution. The design is a testament to the potential of architecture to serve as a medium for storytelling and memory, allowing interaction and education through thoughtful design decisions.

The memorial's unique design approaches prompt a deeper appreciation of the past while engaging contemporary audiences in meaningful ways. This thoughtful integration of function, symbolism, and sustainability encourages visitors to reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of collective memory. For those interested in delving further into this poignant project, examining the architectural plans and specific design elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of its vision and execution. The details highlight a sincere commitment to creating a space that not only pays tribute to history but also fosters connection and healing within the community.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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