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Elevated Canals Embracing Waterwheels and Permeable Pavers in Urban Revitalization

Authors:
Qiuya Di, Shiqi Du, Kundi Shu, Rui Ren
Elevated Canals Embracing Waterwheels and Permeable Pavers in Urban Revitalization

Project in-detail

Elevated canal segments integrate waterwheels and permeable pavers, creating a multi-functional urban ecosystem that revitalizes the Navigli district while enhancing connectivity and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated canal sections allow for pedestrian accessibility and new community activities.
02
Waterwheels serve as both functional water transport and visual focal points.
03
Permeable pavers promote effective water management along pathways.
04
The design integrates ecological habitats within urban infrastructure.
05
Morphogenetic algorithms optimize spatial connections across the district.

The "Aqueducts of Babylon" project revitalizes the Navigli district in Milan, focusing on the enhancement of its canal system. This architectural design brings water management and urban connectivity to the forefront, creating an integrated ecosystem within an urban environment. The project seeks to balance functionality with ecological sustainability, ensuring that waterways serve multiple purposes while fostering community engagement.

Unique Habitat and Design Integration

The concept of the "Aqueducts of Babylon" draws inspiration from historical water management systems. It features waterwheel models, strategically placed to facilitate water transport and add visual interest. Elevated segments of the canal are designed to enhance accessibility and engage the public. This adaptability allows for new activities along the waterways, while providing environmental benefits through integrated green spaces that support both aquatic and terrestrial life.

The project utilizes an innovative approach by employing algorithms to optimize spatial layouts. The Gravity Point Connection method links significant urban destinations, facilitating pedestrian movement and creating a network of pathways. In contrast, the Repulsion Point Interference method minimizes disruption to existing urban activity. This dual approach establishes a harmonious balance between nature and urban infrastructure.

Pragmatic Material Selection

The design incorporates a range of materials that contribute to both structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Concrete forms the foundation of canal systems, providing durability against environmental stress. Steel structures add stability and support for elevated sections, while glass elements enhance visibility and facilitate light penetration. Wood is also employed in certain features, offering warmth and a natural touch within the urban context. Additionally, permeable pavers are utilized for walkways, promoting effective water management and reducing urban runoff.

The inclusion of an ecological linear park further distinguishes this project. This park functions as a habitat for local fauna and flora, providing educational opportunities for residents. It serves as both a recreational area and a natural buffer, enhancing biodiversity in an urban setting while fostering community interaction with natural elements.

The "Aqueducts of Babylon" project presents a meticulous approach to urban revitalization. With its emphasis on ecological integration, innovative design methodologies, and careful material selection, it sets a standard for modern architectural practices. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a deeper understanding of the project’s scope and its impact on urban architectures.

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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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