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Undulating Glass Facade with Steel and Concrete Integration for a Community Commemoration

Authors:
Jamie Connell, Peter Hall, Xi Liang, Michel Borg
Undulating Glass Facade with Steel and Concrete Integration for a Community Commemoration

Project in-detail

The undulating glass facade, complemented by a robust steel and concrete structure, serves as a reflective space for education and commemoration of Baltic unity and independence during a pivotal historical moment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The undulating roof design reflects the concept of a human chain, reinforcing the memorial's symbolism.
02
Extensive use of glass allows for unobstructed views, creating a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape.
03
Steel and concrete structural elements enhance durability while maintaining a lightweight appearance.
04
Integrated viewing platforms offer elevated perspectives, fostering both reflection and community engagement.
05
Native landscaping complements the design, promoting ecological sustainability and regional biodiversity.

The Baltic Way Memorial is an architectural project that commemorates the peaceful movement of two million people joining hands to form a human chain across the Baltic states in 1989. This memorial serves as a symbol of unity, freedom, and independence for Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, representing a pivotal moment in their pursuit of autonomy from Soviet rule. The design integrates contemporary architectural principles with historical significance, creating an engaging environment for visitors while honoring a crucial chapter in the region's history.

Unique Design Approaches

The project employs a distinctive **undulating roofline**, which echoes the concept of the human chain. This design not only enhances visual interest but also facilitates natural light diffusion throughout the interior spaces. The flexible geometry allows for optimal structural performance while maintaining a connection to the cultural narrative behind the site.

The use of **transparent materials**, particularly glass, plays a significant role in the design, promoting openness and accessibility. This choice resonates with the theme of freedom, allowing the natural landscape to engage with the memorial. The façade is engineered to provide an unobtrusive connection between the internal spaces and the external environment, drawing visitors into a reflective experience.

Functional Elements

The Baltic Way Memorial incorporates various functional elements designed to enhance visitor engagement and facilitate educational opportunities. Key components include:

- **Viewing Platforms**: Elevated spaces positioned throughout the site offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, encouraging contemplation of the memorial's significance.

- **Exhibition Areas**: Dedicated sections are established for educational displays, facilitating the inclusion of historical narratives and promoting engagement with the local community and visitors.

- **Pathways and Landscaping**: The design integrates a network of pathways that encourage movement and interaction among visitors. Native plants and local materials contribute to a sustainable landscape that reinforces the memorial's connection to the Baltic environment.

This project stands out within the realm of memorial architecture through its thoughtful integration of cultural heritage and natural elements. Its design not only addresses the historical context but also fosters a space for community gatherings and educational activities.

To explore the comprehensive architectural plans, sections, and other relevant details of the Baltic Way Memorial, it is recommended that you review the full project presentation. Such insights will reveal the depth of thought behind the architectural designs and ideas that shape this significant memorial.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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