In 2019, Guess Line Architects unveiled the Memorial Center in L’viv, Ukraine, spanning an area of 9140 m². This minimalist space pays tribute to the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred, commemorating their sacrifice during the Revolution of Dignity. Situated in the historical heart of Lviv, a UNESCO zone, the Memorial Center blends seamlessly with its surroundings, creating a serene space for remembrance.
Integration with Historical Context
The Memorial Center is nestled within a complex terrain marked by significant level variations. To harmonize with the historically formed environment, the architects divided the space into different level zones, ensuring a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
Commemorative Design Elements
Central to the Memorial Center is the main square featuring a memorial stele adorned with portraits of the fallen Heroes. The stele’s design, resembling a barricade, symbolizes a pivotal moment in the nation’s history and reflects the indomitable spirit of its people. Observation decks offer panoramic views of the city, providing visitors with opportunities for reflection and contemplation.
Creating a Public Space for Remembrance
The Memorial Center serves as a meeting place for visitors and a venue for open exhibitions, fostering a sense of community and collective remembrance. By transforming an abandoned space into an open and inviting environment, the center evokes feelings of peace, inviolability, and freedom.
Rethinking Memory through Design
The architects sought to redefine the concept of monumentality by transforming the memorial into a public space. Portraits of the fallen Heroes, rather than carved names, adorn the stele, each accompanied by their names and life credo. This approach humanizes the memorial, making it more accessible and relatable to visitors.
Environmental Preservation
Efforts were made to preserve the historically formed environment of the site, including existing trees and viewpoints. The design minimizes disruption to the natural landscape, with consoles protruding above the hilltops to provide peaceful vantage points over the city.
Architectural Elements
The memorial stele, constructed from concrete and Corten steel, evokes imagery of flame and burning barricades, symbolic of the Revolution of Dignity. Stainless steel portraits of the Heroes adorn the stele, adding a poignant touch to the memorial. Walkways and consoles are crafted from high-strength concrete, while decorative cereals planted throughout the complex symbolize resilience and endurance.
Illuminating History
The lighting design plays a crucial role in enhancing the memorial’s ambiance. A main light line runs beneath the stele, casting an ethereal glow reminiscent of burning fire. This luminous feature serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the Heroes and their contributions to Ukraine’s history.
The Memorial Center in L’viv stands as a testament to the power of architecture to honor the past while shaping the future. Through its thoughtful design and integration with the surrounding landscape, it provides a space for contemplation, reflection, and collective remembrance.
