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Concrete Structures and See-Through Pool Elevate Urban Wellness Hub

Author:
Axel Prince
Concrete Structures and See-Through Pool Elevate Urban Wellness Hub
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A circular wellness center elevated by concrete structures and a transparent pool provides a unique urban retreat, seamlessly integrating public connectivity and community resources along the Milan Canal.
5 key facts about this project
01
The wellness center is elevated above Independence Road, allowing unobstructed traffic flow beneath.
02
Interactive digital screens facilitate social connections along the canal.
03
An outdoor library features open bookshelves encouraging community sharing of literature.
04
Three hotel rooms employ Smart Glass Technology for customizable privacy and views.
05
A transparent pool offers unique perspectives of the urban landscape from within.

The Milan Canal project introduces a new urban space in Milan, Italy, spanning 8 km. It aims to create an environment that combines public activities, educational opportunities, and natural beauty. The design focuses on integrating these elements to respond to community needs while enhancing the visual appeal of the area.

Public Playground

On the western side of the canal, the Playground features digital screens for public use. These screens allow individuals to connect with others through Skype, promoting interaction. By incorporating technology in this way, the design enhances social connections and provides an interactive experience. Bluetooth functionality adds an extra layer of privacy, making it easier for users to engage without concern.

Educational Hub

The eastern side hosts the Educational Hub, which aspires to be the longest outdoor public library in the world. Open bookshelves are designed into the landscape, encouraging the community to share and borrow books freely. This concept fosters a culture of learning and sharing, strengthening connections among residents. The hub serves not only as a source of information but also as a place for people to gather and exchange ideas.

Wellness Centre

The Wellness Centre is positioned above Independence Road and supported by three concrete structures. This design allows for unobstructed access for vehicles below. Inside, a spiral staircase connects visitors to the park outside, providing a fluid experience between indoor and outdoor spaces. A see-through pool is a central feature, offering distinctive views of the surrounding area while inviting visitors to relax and engage with the space.

Hotel Rooms

Three hotel rooms have been included in the design to accommodate visitors. Each room features Smart Glass Technology, allowing guests to control the level of privacy. This solution enhances comfort while keeping guests connected to the environment outside. The design encourages visitors to experience the vibrant life of the city while enjoying personal space.

The integration of these various elements emphasizes a commitment to improving urban life. The pool serves as a focal point, offering not only a place for leisure but also a unique perspective on the city's dynamic atmosphere.

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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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