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Circular Structure Featuring Smart Glass and Eco-Friendly Materials Transforming Community Spaces

Author:
Axel Prince
Circular Structure Featuring Smart Glass and Eco-Friendly Materials Transforming Community Spaces

Project in-detail

A circular structure clad in Smart Glass integrates sustainable materials to create a vibrant community space along the Milan Canal, offering an immersive environment for leisure, education, and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates Smart Glass technology to enhance natural lighting and privacy in the Wellness Centre.
02
The circular form allows for panoramic views of the surrounding canal and urban landscape.
03
An outdoor library design aims to be the longest public reading space in the world.
04
The integration of interactive installations invites community engagement through art and storytelling.
05
Sustainable water filtration systems improve the ecological health of the canal while serving a functional purpose.
The architectural design project centered on the Milan Canal represents a sophisticated reimagining of urban space, blending natural elements with community functionality. The project aims to transform the canal area into a dynamic public environment, where residents and visitors can engage with both the physical landscape and each other. At its core, this project is a celebration of Milan’s vibrant culture, designed to foster community interactions and promote wellness through thoughtfully integrated spaces for recreation, education, and relaxation.

The project introduces a range of multifaceted public spaces poised to serve diverse community needs. It features elements such as an expansive outdoor library—potentially the world’s longest—which invites literary exploration in a serene setting. This idea iterates the design's commitment to making learning accessible and enjoyable while creating an environment that encourages literacy and community bonding. Additionally, the project includes outdoor theatres and interactive installations that enrich the cultural experience along the canal, ensuring that art and performance are woven into the everyday lives of residents.

A notable aspect of the design is its emphasis on wellness and relaxation, articulated through the Wellness Centre. This circular structure rises above the city, offering panoramic views while creating various environments conducive to comfort and rejuvenation. The inclusion of Smart Glass technology allows for adaptable lighting and privacy, enhancing user experience within the wellness facilities. Such thoughtful design elements reflect a contemporary understanding of mental and physical well-being, emphasizing the importance of integrating nature and tranquility in urban settings.

The project further engages with community life through spaces that cater to leisure and social activities. Public playgrounds, green areas, and gathering spots seamlessly blend with the canal’s natural landscape, reinforcing the architect’s vision of creating a holistic urban ecosystem. Planting and landscaping throughout the space not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also foster environmental health, contributing to a richer urban fabric.

Technologically, the project does not shy away from innovation. Features such as digital screens for private filming and storytelling serve to modernize the experience of the canal area while driving engagement through interactive elements. The design contemplates the evolving needs of its users, marrying function with a contemporary approach to technology and community engagement.

Materials play a crucial role in articulating the overall vision of the project. The use of concrete provides a robust foundation, ensuring structural integrity while allowing for a minimalist aesthetic. Wood offers warmth and invites interaction, complementing the natural environment of the canal. Glass, particularly in the Wellness Centre, creates transparency and connection with the surroundings, reinforcing the project’s relationship with nature.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, showcasing an alignment of beauty and utility. The integration of sustainable practices, such as water filtration systems for the canal, not only enhances the ecological footprint but also elevates the overall experience of the space. By prioritizing sustainability, the project establishes a contemporary benchmark for urban developments in Milan and beyond.

The architectural aspirations illustrated in this design go beyond mere aesthetics; they serve as a framework for cultivating community life and interaction. The Milan Canal project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to enrich urban experiences, providing spaces that foster learning, culture, and wellbeing. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project, including architectural plans and sections, a deeper dive into the project presentation will yield valuable insights into the design and functional elements that define this innovative approach to urban rejuvenation.
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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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