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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 Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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