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Biophilic Community Plaza Featuring Green Roofs and Sustainable Materials

Author:
Lorena Mercedes Pilat Diaz
Biophilic Community Plaza Featuring Green Roofs and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Utilizing biophilic design principles, the community plaza integrates green roofs and durable materials to create a multifunctional space that fosters social interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates green roofs to promote biodiversity and support local wildlife.
03
Features a public plaza that serves as a community gathering space.
04
Employs natural ventilation strategies to reduce energy consumption.
05
Incorporates terraces with planters for increased greenery and resident interaction.

# Architectural Design Report: Los Mimbres Plaza

## Project Overview

Los Mimbres Plaza is a mixed-use development located in the La Exposición neighborhood, noted for its historical significance and cultural richness. This project integrates residential, commercial, and public spaces to foster community engagement and enhance urban livability. The design seeks to accommodate diverse functions that serve both local residents and visitors, promoting a holistic urban lifestyle.

## Spatial Integration and Massing

The design responds to the existing urban fabric and infrastructure, focusing on the integration of two key blocks in the area. Initial efforts involved aligning the new structures with established urban axes to maintain continuity in pedestrian movement and access. The strategic organization of density within the development allows for ample light and ventilation, while also connecting with the surrounding environment. Various building heights and massing techniques introduce visual diversity, with residential terraces enhanced by greenery to encourage interaction and harmonious living.

## Public Plaza Design

At the center of the development, the public plaza functions as a multifunctional space designed to facilitate community interaction. It features gardens and landscaping that contribute to a tranquil atmosphere, promoting well-being among users. A shallow water channel meanders through the plaza, enriching the sensory experience and enhancing the overall environment. This open area prioritizes accessibility, seamlessly connecting to adjacent streets and inviting both movement and socialization through thoughtfully designed pathways.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices reflect a commitment to durability and ecological responsibility. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, complemented by steel framing that facilitates open spaces. Warmth is introduced through wood accents in decking and facades, while glass elements enhance natural light and transparency. Stone pavers in the plaza provide a textured surface promoting mobility. Sustainable design practices, such as the use of local materials and passive solar strategies, contribute to the project’s environmental stewardship, while biophilic design elements support biodiversity and improve air quality.

This comprehensive approach culminates in a space that not only fulfills functional requirements but also resonates with the historical and cultural context of La Exposición.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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