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Womb-Shaped Space Crafted from White Ceramic and Grey Marble for Reflection and Remembrance

Authors:
Cheong Nai Cheong, Subashini Ganandran
Womb-Shaped Space Crafted from White Ceramic and Grey Marble for Reflection and Remembrance
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A womb-shaped structure constructed from white ceramic and grey marble creates a serene environment for reflection and remembrance within a modern columbarium.
5 key facts about this project
01
womb-shaped form symbolizes life and creation historical references to burial mounds enhance cultural significance integration of perennial flowers promotes a living memorial use of white polished ceramic adds a modern aesthetic grey marble elements create a tranquil, reflective atmosphere.

The Chamber of Memories provides a space that thoughtfully addresses the themes of life and death. Located in a peaceful environment, it serves as a memorial columbarium designed to honor the memories of those who have passed. The design concept focuses on the connections between the human soul and body, linking them to figures like Mother Mary and Jesus. This connection fosters an atmosphere that encourages reflection and remembrance.

Symbolism of Form

Central to the design is the shape of a womb, representing the beginning of life. This form is essential to the columbarium, highlighting the caring aspects of memory and the continuous cycle of existence. It creates a protective space for visitors, aiming to provide comfort and support during moments of remembrance.

Historical Context

The layout of the site reflects a mindful engagement with historical burial practices. It draws inspiration from notable structures such as the Neolithic Burial Mound at Newgrange in Ireland and the Kurgan near Kerch, Russia. These references enrich the design by connecting it to traditional customs. By incorporating these elements, the Chamber of Memories creates a link between past rituals and present expressions of grief, making the visitor experience more meaningful.

Natural Integration

Including perennial flowers, lilies, and phloxes further connects the space to nature. These plants symbolize life and continuity, adding an inviting aspect to the memorial. This natural element brings a sense of growth and renewal, contrasting with the permanence of the columbarium.

Material Selection

The choice of materials plays an important role in shaping the environment. The project uses white polished ceramic for interior features, white concrete for the walls, and grey marble. Together, these materials create a calm setting that supports contemplation. This careful selection enhances the aim of the design: to honor memory through thoughtful details.

An elaborate detailing at the entryway invites visitors in. The smooth transition between materials helps guide them into the heart of the space, encouraging engagement with the thoughtful nature of the design.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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