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Elevated Communal Spaces Transforming Urban Connectivity

Author:
Nicola Constanza Noriega Bravo
Elevated Communal Spaces Transforming Urban Connectivity
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Elevated communal spaces at multiple levels redefine public engagement, enhancing connectivity and integrating sustainable practices within a mixed-use environment in Mexico City.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated communal areas at three distinct levels enhance social interaction.
02
Integrated public and private spaces promote accessibility in the urban environment.
03
The design emphasizes pedestrian pathways over vehicular traffic.
04
Canal walkways replace traditional infrastructure, improving environmental quality.
05
Four smaller communities support diverse demographic engagement and inclusivity.

The Sky Communities project is set in a deprived district of Mexico City, aiming to address significant urban issues such as environmental impact and crime. The site enjoys excellent access to public transportation, with the East Bus Station and subway lines nearby, making it convenient for residents. The design aims to integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, fostering community ties and improving quality of life. By focusing on pedestrian-friendly environments, the project seeks to reshape the urban landscape into an engaging area for all.

Urban Integration

The location's accessibility is a key feature. With major public transport options just a short walk away, movement throughout the district will become easier. The design intends to shift the focus from cars to pedestrians, allowing for a safer and more enjoyable experience. This transformation will create spaces that encourage social interaction and engagement while improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the urban setting.

Community-Centric Design

Dividing the development into four smaller communities helps maintain a manageable human scale. Each area is designed to foster connections among residents, making it feel inviting and approachable. Elevated communal spaces at the 16th, 31st, and 44th levels provide opportunities for public gatherings and social activities. By emphasizing community engagement, the design promotes inclusivity and encourages a diverse range of individuals to come together.

Environmental and Social Responsibility

Mitigating environmental challenges is another significant focus of the design. The project aims to uplift the area by transforming underused properties into useful community spaces, introducing features such as a canal walk. These changes enhance environmental quality while offering a more appealing landscape for residents and visitors. The design reflects a commitment to creating a responsible urban environment that meets present-day needs while addressing past neglect.

Open and inviting areas will draw people in, encouraging interactions and fostering a sense of belonging. Green spaces will blend with built structures, providing a natural connection that enhances the urban experience.

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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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