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Curvilinear Pathways Enhanced by Permeable Pavers and Native Vegetation in a Revitalized Urban Landscape

Author:
Université Laval – École D’architecture (laurianne Boulanger)
Curvilinear Pathways Enhanced by Permeable Pavers and Native Vegetation in a Revitalized Urban Landscape
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Curvilinear paths woven through a landscape of permeable pavers and native vegetation transform urban waterways into vibrant community spaces dedicated to sustainability and recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear pathways integrate seamlessly with the existing topography, enhancing natural flow throughout the site.
02
Permeable pavers are utilized to manage stormwater efficiently while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
03
Native vegetation is prioritized to promote local biodiversity and minimize maintenance needs.
04
The design incorporates user-friendly seating areas strategically placed along water features for community engagement.
05
The project emphasizes ecological functionality through green infrastructure elements that support urban wildlife habitats.

Curva Dell’Acqua is a forward-thinking architectural design project located in Milan, aimed at reconnecting the urban landscape with its historical waterways. The project addresses the need for improved environmental management and user engagement with water. By incorporating natural elements into the built environment, Curva Dell’Acqua aims to enhance both ecological function and urban aesthetics.

The project embodies a conceptual approach where movement and flow are fundamental themes. Curvilinear paths reflect the organic movement of water, allowing community members to navigate through the space intuitively. The integration of green infrastructure provides essential stormwater management, improves biodiversity, and enhances public access to waterfront areas.

The primary function of the design is to create a revitalized urban area where people can engage with nature through recreational and communal activities. Elements such as seating areas, pathways, and vegetated ponds encourage interaction, making the project a platform for community gatherings and environmental education.

The architectural design employs several unique approaches that distinguish it from typical urban development projects. One significant aspect is the strategic use of materials that complement the environmental goals of the project. Reinforced concrete forms the backbone of structural integrity, while permeable pavers facilitate sustainable drainage, reducing surface runoff. Vegetation plays a critical role, with native plant species selected to create habitats and enhance the local ecosystem.

Additionally, Curva Dell’Acqua demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of how urban spaces can harmonize with natural waterways. By blurring the lines between built and natural environments, the design challenges conventional urban planning by offering an inviting landscape that encourages physical connectivity to water. This distinct vision enhances not only aesthetic quality but also functional sustainability.

The project includes detailed architectural plans that showcase the layout of pathways, green spaces, and water features. Architectural sections detail the interplay of different elevations and the integration of built elements with natural surroundings. These aspects reinforce the overarching theme of fluidity and connection within an urban context.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this architectural project, it is advisable to examine the architectural plans and sections, as they provide deeper insights into the innovative design strategies employed. Engaging with a variety of architectural designs and ideas will enhance understanding of how Curva Dell’Acqua stands out in contemporary architecture.

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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.

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