Schindler´s Ark

Project idea

The main focus of my proposal is to make a strong and striking architectural intervention in the preexisting buildings to provoke respect and honor for the memory of the Jews saved by Oskar Schindler during World War II, seeking to engender a reflection on the historical events that occurred at that time in the factory and its surroundings through a conceptual expression projected on the museum´s spaces. The architectural design that I present is mainly inspired by Schindler's legacy and the symbolism of the RING that the Jews gave him as a token of gratitude, in addition to the abstraction of several important concepts that stand out in this part of history, seeking to create a strong visual impression that leaves a mark in the visitors' minds.

Project description

The central design concept of the project is the ring that was given to Schindler by the Jews he saved, which is represented as a copper ring that encapsulates the three buildings with the most historical weight and significance on the site; Schindler´s Ark Building, the German garrison building and Oskar Schindler´s office building. This ring goes through and literally breaks the structure of the factory, making a hole that carries the trace of the ring from the ground floor to the roof, representing a wound in the history of humanity caused by the events of World War II. This physical and symbolic rupture serves as a constant reminder of the horrors of the past and the need to learn from them to build a more just and peaceful future. The ring creates a fracture, but at the same time, it unifies the existing buildings and creates an architectural language that is seen throughout the whole design. In summary, the museum memorial about the Second World War focused on the Jews saved by Oskar Schindler and located in the factory where these historical events occurred, is presented as an architectural space loaded with symbolism, reflection, and memory, using design, materiality and architectural recycling as tools to honor the past and build a more humane and compassionate future.

Technical information

The predominant use of copper throughout the architectural intervention evokes resistance and durability symbolizing cultural richness and collective memory. The color red, present throughout the project, adds an element of solemnity, remembering the bloodshed during the war and the sacrifice of those who fought for freedom and justice. These structures, steeped in history and meaning, are integrated into the design of the museum memorial, preserving their original appearance but adapting them to meet the contemporary needs of the project. This integration of old with new creates a unique architectural experience that highlights continuity and transformation over time.

Documentation

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