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Vertical Elements and Local Stone Unite in a Reflective Commemoration Space

Authors:
Sanjin Subic, Andrijana Batalo, Irena Veljovic
Vertical Elements and Local Stone Unite in a Reflective Commemoration Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with vertical elements and local stone, the memorial serves as a reflective space that educates visitors about the historical significance of the Baltic Way.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to reflect the themes of unity and resilience through its vertical elements.
02
Incorporates local stone to connect the memorial to the regional context and history.
03
An underground passage enhances connectivity with surrounding urban infrastructure.
04
Visitor interaction is facilitated through exhibition panels integrated into the design.
05
The site features a gently sloping promenade that symbolizes the ascent towards hope.

The Baltic Way Memorial is an architectural project that honors the peaceful protest known as the Baltic Way, which occurred in 1989 and symbolized the unity of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia in their quest for independence. This project serves as a commemorative landmark and an educational resource, fostering awareness of the region's history and its ongoing significance. The design optimally integrates into the urban landscape of Riga, Latvia, both in form and function, creating a space that encourages reflection and engagement.

The memorial features a series of vertical elements arranged along a gently sloping promenade that ascends towards the Daugava River. This ramp is not only a physical pathway but a metaphorical representation of hope and unity among the Baltic states. The podium structure, with its various levels, facilitates different commitments to historical narratives while maintaining accessibility for all visitors. The architectural composition emphasizes verticality, reflecting themes of resilience and fortitude inherent in the collective Baltic identity.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Baltic Way Memorial is its focus on interactive experience. Rather than serving merely as a passive commemorative site, this project encourages visitor participation. The use of exhibition panels along the route informs visitors of key historical moments associated with the Baltic Way, creating an educational dimension that is often overlooked in traditional memorials. The architectural elements, including the ramp and vertical structures, allow visitors to both explore the site and engage with its narrative.

The integration of an underground passage connecting the memorial to the Riga Technical University represents a modern approach to urban connectivity. This feature enhances accessibility while fostering a dialogue between educational and commemorative functions. The careful selection of materials—such as concrete, steel, glass, and local stone—reflects the project's commitment to durability and regional identity. The vertical elements echo the aspirational nature of the memorial, without losing the significance of local context.

Historical and Cultural Context

The memorial's location within Riga not only amplifies its symbolic meaning but also reinforces the urban landscape's historical narratives. The arrangement of external spaces encourages public gathering, allowing the memorial to function dynamically within the city. This multifunctionality extends the role of the memorial, making it a site for both commemoration and community engagement.

The thoughtful integration of circulation pathways guides visitors through the memorial, facilitating exploration while providing moments for contemplation along the journey. The overall design emphasizes the importance of collective memory in shaping urban identity, which is particularly relevant in the context of post-Soviet Europe.

The Baltic Way Memorial invites further investigation into its architectural plans, sections, and designs. For a detailed understanding of its architectural ideas and layout, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation to grasp the nuances of this significant cultural landmark.

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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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