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Ecological Corridor with Native Plantings and Sustainable Timber Integration

Authors:
Shenglan Xu, Abril Jiang
Ecological Corridor with Native Plantings and Sustainable Timber Integration

Project in-detail

With an ecological corridor designed to enhance local biodiversity, this revitalization effort integrates sustainable timber and native plantings to transform the urban canal into a vibrant community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural efficiency.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light capture.
04
Integrates native plant species to support local biodiversity.
05
Includes multifunctional spaces designed for community engagement and events.

The architectural project "The Flowing Duet" is focused on the revitalization of a historically significant canal in Milan. This design aims to enhance both ecological sustainability and urban connectivity, integrating the canal as a vital component of community infrastructure. The project encompasses multiple landscapes, catering to recreational, ecological, and transport functions, thus promoting an active urban lifestyle.

The main features include community parks, an ecological corridor, pocket gardens, and wharfs, which together create an environment that nurtures social interaction. The canal serves as a central axis, facilitating pedestrian and cyclist access, and supporting diverse activities alongside its banks.

Integration of Natural and Built Environments One of the unique aspects of this project is its commitment to harmonizing architectural design with natural ecosystems. The landscaping utilizes native plants to reinforce local biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively. The design approach focuses on creating green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and permeable pavers that enhance environmental performance while delivering aesthetic value.

Further, the community parks are designed as multifunctional spaces that allow for events and social gatherings, thereby ingraining the canal into the daily life of residents. The use of sustainable materials, including reinforced concrete for durability and eco-friendly timber for warmth, supports the project's long-term viability and environmental responsibility.

Innovative Transportation Solutions Another key aspect of "The Flowing Duet" is the emphasis on multimodal transportation. The design not only provides walkable pathways and cycling routes but also integrates docking facilities for boats, enhancing mobility options for users. This holistic approach ensures that the canal is more than just a waterway; it becomes an active part of the urban transportation network, promoting reduced vehicular traffic and encouraging greener commuting practices.

To delve deeper into the specific architectural plans, sections, and designs that embody this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of "The Flowing Duet." The project's thoughtful design ideas reflect not only a response to local environmental needs but also an understanding of the community's social fabric, demonstrating the potential for integrated urban architecture.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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