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Vertical Niches and Pruned Hedges Create Intimate Space in White Marble Columbarium

Author:
Johan Siim
Vertical Niches and Pruned Hedges Create Intimate Space in White Marble Columbarium
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Honed white marble niches arranged vertically among pruned hedges create an intimate setting for reflection and remembrance in a thoughtfully designed columbarium.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical niches enhance privacy and intimacy for personal memorials.
02
Honed white marble provides a reflective, tranquil surface for the structure.
03
Pruned hedges create a natural boundary while allowing open sightlines.
04
The layout encourages exploration and movement through open pathways.
05
Follies serve multiple functions, acting as seating and landscape features.

The columbarium design is set in a peaceful landscape, serving as a space for reflection and remembrance. The idea behind it is to create a "white city" composed of various follies, which together foster a calm atmosphere. The project balances the need for privacy with open areas that invite contemplation, making it a special place for grieving.

Concept and Design Intent

The central aim of the columbarium is to provide privacy through an innovative vertical arrangement of graves. This design allows for distinct niches that hold urns, flowers, and candles, forming individual memorial spaces. Each niche is part of a larger network of follies, which enhances the peaceful nature of the environment. The layout encourages visitors to connect with their memories in a personal way.

Landscaping and Interaction

Landscaping is a key feature that enhances the overall experience of the columbarium. Surrounding pruned hedges create a natural boundary that offers protection while allowing views of the white marble follies. This design invites people to wander and explore the area. The interplay between the architecture and the landscape creates an engaging environment that encourages reflection.

Materiality and Structure

Carefully chosen materials support the columbarium's purpose. The exterior of the niches is fitted with honed white marble tiles, providing a dignified appearance that captures light. Pre-fabricated concrete is used for structural elements, ensuring that the building is strong and durable. This choice of materials helps to create a lasting tribute.

The unique shapes of the follies define the pathways throughout the columbarium. Visitors can ascend the stairs of the follies for sweeping views, allowing them to see how the architectural elements blend with the surrounding greenery. This thoughtful design enhances the atmosphere, making the space an inviting place for personal moments of reflection.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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