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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Concrete Transforming Urban Waterfront Spaces into Ecological Community Hubs

Authors:
Kian ming Pang, Yusuke Kobayashi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Concrete Transforming Urban Waterfront Spaces into Ecological Community Hubs

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and recycled concrete, the design revitalizes the Navigli Canal into a vibrant ecosystem that enhances community interaction and promotes sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural lighting and spatial flexibility.
04
Integrates native vegetation to promote biodiversity and ecological health along the canal.
05
Includes modular market spaces that adapt to various community events and activities.
The Navigli Canal project revitalizes an important historical waterway in Milan, Italy, transforming it into a dynamic urban space. The initiative embodies a commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and ecological performance, fostering a platform for both local commerce and cultural exchange. The design integrates contemporary architectural practices with respect for the canal's historical significance, establishing a cohesive and multifunctional environment that serves both residents and visitors.

Urban Integration and Ecological Focus
Central to this architectural design is the principle of ecological connectivity. The project enhances the landscape along the canal by incorporating native vegetation and promoting biodiversity. This focus on natural elements extends to the design of public spaces, which include pedestrian pathways, green zones, and modular market areas. These elements collectively create a vibrant atmosphere that encourages social interaction while addressing urban density challenges. The careful arrangement of these spaces facilitates various activities, including local markets and workshops, aimed at promoting sustainable practices.

Sustainable Mobility and Community Engagement
The project presents a novel approach to urban mobility. It integrates bike paths and pedestrian routes to promote eco-friendly transportation options, minimizing reliance on vehicles in an increasingly congested urban area. The introduction of kayak stations and water-based activities enhances connection to the canal while offering recreational avenues for users. Community engagement is further reinforced through the establishment of educational facilities, such as slow food kitchens, which aim to instill sustainable practices and foster a culture of local entrepreneurship.

Architectural Materiality and Aesthetic
Materials play a critical role in the design’s efficacy and aesthetic. Sustainable materials, such as recycled concrete, wood, and glass, are utilized throughout the project to ensure durability while maintaining a low environmental impact. The design employs transparent elements to maximize natural light, encouraging a sense of openness and connectivity within indoor spaces. By balancing functionality with aesthetic considerations, the architectural design contributes to a cohesive environment that honors the canal's historical origin while embracing a forward-looking perspective.

The Navigli Canal architectural project stands as a comprehensive model for integrating historical waterways into contemporary urban landscapes. For more detailed insights, including architectural plans and sections, as well as specific design elements, explore the project presentation and discover the unique architectural ideas that shape this redevelopment effort.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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