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Charming Public Space With Historical Brick Restoration and Sustainable Waterproof Concrete Integration

Author:
Ambrogio Filippini
Charming Public Space With Historical Brick Restoration and Sustainable Waterproof Concrete Integration

Project in-detail

Restored historical brick elements combine with durable waterproof concrete to create an engaging public space that revitalizes the Milan Navigli Canal, enhancing urban connectivity and ecological diversity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Restores historical canal features, preserving Milan's architectural heritage.
02
Integrates waterproof concrete to manage urban water levels effectively.
03
Includes landscaping that promotes local biodiversity along the canal banks.
04
Offers pedestrian pathways that enhance community access and engagement.
05
Incorporates public art spaces to foster cultural interactions within the area.
The Milan Navigli Canal project focuses on the revitalization of the historic canal systems in Milan, particularly the Martesana Canal, to integrate transportation solutions and enhance urban life. This initiative emphasizes the balance between historical preservation and contemporary urban design. It aims to restore the canals, facilitating navigation and pedestrians while emphasizing sustainability and ecological balance within the urban environment.

The project serves multiple functions, including transportation, recreation, and environmental restoration. It connects various urban points through a redesigned network of pedestrian pathways and public transport links, engaging the community in the historical significance of the waterways. The restored canals will provide alternative transit routes while serving as green spaces that promote biodiversity.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the architectural design. Key materials include brick for historical restoration, waterproof concrete for infrastructure durability, and landscaping materials that enhance ecological habitats. These materials support structural requirements while ensuring visual continuity with Milan’s historical context.

This project employs several unique design approaches. It focuses on interactive spaces that foster community engagement with the canals' historical significance. The incorporation of innovative transport solutions, such as underground parking and pedestrian pathways integrated with the canal, ensures seamless connectivity while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Furthermore, there is an inclusion of public art spaces designed to enrich the community’s experience and enhance cultural appreciation.

A significant aspect of the design is its integrated ecological framework, which emphasizes hydrological management and biodiversity enhancement. This initiative creates environments conducive to flora and fauna, thereby improving the ecological health of the urban waterway.

For a comprehensive view of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, it is encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide deeper insights into the innovative architectural ideas behind the Milan Navigli Canal project.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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