Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Vertical Structure With Glass And Concrete Elements Nestled Under A Forest Canopy

Authors:
Weihao He, Shi qi Tang, Jing yi Wang, Yue Hou
Vertical Structure With Glass And Concrete Elements Nestled Under A Forest Canopy

Project in-detail

Elevated urns arranged in a spiral formation create a reflective space, harmonizing with the surrounding forest while utilizing glass and concrete to redefine the function of a contemporary memorial facility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiral arrangement of urns enhances vertical integration within the site.
02
Mirrored pool reflects natural surroundings, fostering introspection.
03
Glass façade allows natural light to permeate the mourning space.
04
Metal brackets support transparency and weightlessness of the structure.
05
Interactive memorial features enable personalized visitor engagement.
The project "Being Towards Death – A Vertical Cemetery In The Forest" represents an architectural response to the traditional concept of cemeteries. Situated within a forest, this design not only honors the deceased but also engages the living in a reflective experience surrounding mortality. The vertical organization of the cemetery allows for a unique interaction between space, nature, and memory, redefining how memorialization can be perceived and experienced.

The primary function of the design is to provide a serene and contemplative environment where families can connect with their loved ones who have passed away. The columbarium, a central feature, is a vertically structured component that accommodates urns in a thoughtful distribution, allowing for personal reflection while maintaining a compact footprint. The design includes a mourning room for ceremonies, a mirrored pool for introspection, and interactive elements encouraging visitor engagement.

The material palette comprises glass, concrete, and metal, each chosen for its inherent qualities and symbolic meanings. Glass provides transparency and openness, allowing light to permeate the space, while concrete offers structural integrity, symbolizing the permanence of memory. Metal contributes to the overall structural support and serves as a link between earth and sky, reinforcing the project’s dual relationship with life and death.

The unique aspect of this project resides in its representation of the deceased as part of a cosmic journey. The vertical arrangement of urns not only saves land but also allows for a metaphorical ascent towards the sky, reinforcing the transitory nature of existence. Unlike traditional cemeteries that can appear solemn, this design fosters a dialogue about life, mortality, and remembrance.

The integration with the surrounding forest landscape plays a crucial role in the overall design approach. By harmonizing the structure with its natural environment, the monument becomes a part of the ecosystem, inviting nature into the experience of grieving. The mirrored pool positioned within the space further enhances this integration, allowing visitors to engage with reflections, both physical and metaphorical, representing inner thoughts and emotions.

The interactive features embedded throughout the site create opportunities for visitors to leave messages or engage with the space in personally meaningful ways. This is particularly significant in modern memorialization practices, where personalization and involvement contribute to the overall experience.

To explore more about the architectural elements, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with this innovative project, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation. Insights into architectural ideas can enhance understanding of how design can reshape perceptions surrounding life, death, and memory within a contemporary context.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy