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Ecological Canals and Community Paths Shaping Urban Connectivity

Authors:
Maoqianzhi Li, Zhanpeng He
Ecological Canals and Community Paths Shaping Urban Connectivity

Project in-detail

A complex of interconnected canals fosters biodiversity and enhances community interaction while facilitating active transportation in Milan’s urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Canal system enhances urban biodiversity and ecological interaction.
02
Distinctive Culture-River and Ecology-River promote diverse community activities.
03
Integrated rainwater purification systems support sustainable water management.
04
Pedestrian and bicycle paths connect historical landmarks with modern spaces.
05
Dynamic waterfront areas adapt for seasonal recreational use.

The Multi-River project in Milan is a thoughtful urban design that aims to blend cultural, ecological, and transportation elements. Set against the backdrop of an evolving city, it features a linear layout centered around a canal system. This design encourages interaction between urban spaces and natural waterways, enhancing the quality of life for those who live and work in the area.

Spatial Integration

The layout prioritizes movement for both pedestrians and cyclists along the waterfront. Walkways and dedicated bike paths are integrated into the design, promoting active lifestyles and encouraging people to engage with the surroundings. These pathways become not just routes from point A to point B, but vibrant spaces that contribute to social interaction and a sense of community.

Cultural Context

The project connects with existing historical landmarks, including the Duomo di Milano, creating a contrast between old and new. This connection allows for a rich narrative that draws on the city's heritage while integrating modern urban life. Users are invited to explore and engage with both the historical and contemporary aspects of their environment through well-placed architectural nodes, providing spaces for gatherings and events.

Ecological Features

Attention to ecology is a central theme in the design. A canal water system is proposed to enhance biodiversity and manage water flow efficiently. The inclusion of rainwater purification systems demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, aligning urban needs with the natural landscape. This approach aims to tackle environmental challenges, contributing positively to the urban ecosystem.

User Engagement

Waterfront spaces within the project are designed for a variety of activities, catering to the needs of the community. From quiet leisure spots to active recreational areas, these spaces are adaptable throughout the seasons. The intent is to create environments that invite exploration and foster connections among users, ensuring that the public feels a sense of ownership and belonging.

The outcome is a balanced blend of architecture and landscape, where greenery and water features come together. The design enhances the overall urban experience, providing an inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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