am-plan |
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Projects : Kaprun Memorial | |||||
Virtual Model |
Concept Outside Area Building Exterior Building Interior In memory of the victims of the cable car accident at the 11th of November 2000, it is intended to build a memorial in the mountain area of the Kitzsteinhorn. The building will be situated in the immediate neighbourhood of the the former scene of the accident and allows a direct view from the inside of the memorial to the tunnel entrance. The concept of the building attempts to meet the needs of mourning people of many different nations and denominations. Concept The building draft adapts perfectly to the natural topography of the hilly construction area. The design is of timeless stern style, reduced to the essentials by means of the minimalism. We want to create a quiet place for reflection and taking stock, similar to churches, with a monastic strength. The light guidance promotes the inner contemplation additionally. Outside Area The way from the parking area to the entrance of the memorial is flat and, especially with consideration towards handicapped people, free of barriers. It is separated from the ground by a wall of natural stone, like the base of the building itself. In front of the memorial is a small square place, framed by stripes of low wall elements, intended for sitting. This square invites for a rest and to get in the mood for the personal devotion. Through the inclusion of the adjoining footpath, by chance encounters with the memorial building will happen and will be promoted. The draft of the square is designed with 155 slabs, which reminds of the number of victims. The pattern is choosen in such a way that one square field will finally be left for planting a tree - a symbol of hope. Building Exterior The construction shall be built of concrete on a base of natural stone. This interconnects the memorial with the surrounding landscape and the nature of the Alps. The simple shaped, slim cube, shows glass slats along both long sides. The entrance is locateded at east side of the building: A door slit with a fanlight. Opposite to the entrance, on the west side of the room, a small window opening permits a view to the tunnel entrance. The roof shape has been consciously designed flat in order to differentiate this memorial building from the architectural style of lodges and snow bars in the surrounding area. The selection of building materials has been made done with respect to the expected rough climate conditions in this area. Durable and rugged materials with minimal requirements concerning maintenance and corresponding costs. This assures that the building will never look neglected. Building Interior The visitor first enters a small ante-room, which provides shelter from the wind. This room also offers the opportunity for the installation of a commemorative plaque on the wall opposite to the entrance door. Passages at both sides lead to the room of devotion of the memorial building. The two long sides characterize this room, showing 155 small glass slats, sitting between slim pillars of concrete. Each light slit is a symbol for a life. It represents one of the victims of the accident and carries the name of the person. The glass niches create a small sphere of privacy for the devotion. A candle holder is available in each niche. The glowing of the candles can be noticed from outside the building. The glass slats can be carried out in different colors. The wish of many relatives to show a picture next to the name of victim can be fulfilled. We suggest to print it directly on the glass to guarantee durability and immunity against environmental influences. The pictures should be printed monochrome. They could be transferred and processed in digital form. Another possibility would be, to make a commemorative writing with pictures, which is put on display on a table, located at the middle wall between the two entrance passages. A few wooden benches placed along the room axis invite to sit down for a moment. For the floor covering, we suggest non-slippery granite. |