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Weathered Steel and Transparent Elements Forming a Contemplative Space for Remembrance

Author:
Mihael V Efremov
Weathered Steel and Transparent Elements Forming a Contemplative Space for Remembrance

Project in-detail

The interplay of weathered steel and expansive glass panels offers a reflective space that honors the victims of the Lisbon earthquake while fostering community engagement and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Corten steel walls evolve aesthetically over time, symbolizing resilience and memory.
02
Large glass panels enhance light and visibility, fostering a connection with the landscape.
03
The design features a symbolic central opening, representing passage and reflection.
04
Natural stones in the plaza echo the geological roots of the site and its history.
05
Interactive pathways encourage engagement and contemplation among visitors.

The Earthquake Site Memorial is an architectural project designed to honor the victims of the Lisbon earthquake of 1755. Located strategically along the shoreline of the city, the memorial serves both as a historical reference and a contemplative space for reflection. The design integrates elements that evoke the impact of natural disasters while promoting human resilience.

The memorial consists of two towering walls constructed from weathered steel that encase a central plaza. This layout creates a dramatic entrance that guides visitors through a narrow passage, symbolizing the tension between confinement and freedom. The interplay of space and materiality allows for a reflective experience that aligns with the history of the tragedy it memorializes.

The use of materials such as Corten steel gives the structure a rustic appearance while emphasizing the theme of time and erosion. Large glass panels are integrated into the design, which facilitates an engagement with the external environment and enhances visibility of the natural landscape beyond. The ground level features smooth, natural stone that serves both aesthetic and symbolic purposes, representing the geological foundations that can be both life-giving and destructive.

Unique Design Approaches The architecture of the Earthquake Site Memorial distinguishes itself through its consideration of historical and environmental narratives. The central opening in the memorial serves as a metaphorical passage exploring themes of loss and continuity. This design choice fosters an interactive experience, encouraging visitors to not only engage with the memorial but also contemplate their relationships with nature.

The memorial integrates sustainable practices, reflecting a conscious dialogue between the architecture and its surroundings. By emphasizing materials that age naturally, it presents a living testament to the enduring impact of both human actions and environmental forces. The project is not merely a static structure; it evokes a dynamic interaction with its setting, enhancing the visitor's experience of the memorial.

Architectural Elements The architectural composition focuses on both form and function to convey deeper meanings. The walls, composed of weathered steel, symbolize the scars left by natural disasters, while the glass panels create an ethereal connection to the natural environment. The layout directs visitor flow toward a central gathering space, fostering a sense of community and shared commemoration.

Additional details within the memorial include careful lighting placement, which highlights key features and creates shadows that symbolize uncertainty and reflection. The design incorporates varying textures both in the construction materials and the pathways, which actively engage visitors and draw attention to the memorial’s narrative.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design philosophy, exploring the detailed presentation of the Earthquake Site Memorial is encouraged. This examination will provide a deeper understanding of the architect's intentions and the implications of the design in relation to its historical context.

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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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