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Community Spaces Integrated with Historical Waterways

Authors:
Mohamed Shahwan, Sherifa El-haggan, Toka Hassan, Merna Genina
Community Spaces Integrated with Historical Waterways
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Community spaces along historic waterways intertwine with educational hubs and cultural activities, enhancing urban connectivity while prioritizing pedestrian access and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Community spaces are strategically integrated with historic landmarks along the Navigli.
02
Vertical parking facilities optimize land use while creating additional green areas.
03
Educational hubs facilitate workshops, linking academia with the local environment.
04
Paths are designed to enhance pedestrian flow and promote cycling alongside the canal.
05
Native plant species are incorporated to support local biodiversity and enhance sustainability.

The revitalization of the Navigli in Milano is an important effort aimed at improving urban life along the city's historic waterways. This area, rich in cultural history, blends functionality with a modern design concept that emphasizes pedestrian and cyclist access. The design creates a balance between fast urban movement and moments of calm, encouraging varied interactions with the landscape.

Key Components of the Design

Parks and green spaces play a central role in the project, promoting social interactions and environmental sustainability. These areas provide a refuge within the urban environment and encourage connections among residents and visitors. They offer opportunities for relaxation and communal activities, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the Navigli.



Pedestrian Pathways and Traffic Flow

A major focus of the design is the improvement of pedestrian pathways alongside the canal. Vehicle traffic has been redirected to main streets, prioritizing safe and inviting spaces for walking and cycling. Vertical parking facilities have been introduced to maximize land use, resulting in more green spaces that enrich the experience for users.



Cultural and Educational Hubs

Educational institutions, including the Università degli Studi, are strategically placed along the Navigli, acting as cultural and educational centers. These institutions are designed to host workshops and community activities, strengthening the relationship between the school and the local environment. Open libraries and exhibition spaces enhance cultural exchanges within the area, attracting a diverse audience.



Historical Integration and Modern Amenities

The design thoughtfully connects historical landmarks, such as the Da Vinci Lock and nearby basilicas, with contemporary features. Public platforms and gathering spaces around these sites create settings for performances and community events. This approach ensures that the historical context remains relevant in everyday life, allowing the past to blend with the present.



Paths lined with local plant species add beauty to the environment while supporting wildlife. Careful attention to how these spaces are used promotes dynamic interactions among visitors and the waterways, making the Navigli a lively urban corridor.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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