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Elevated Communal Spaces Transforming Urban Connectivity

Author:
Nicola constanza Noriega bravo
Elevated Communal Spaces Transforming Urban Connectivity

Project in-detail

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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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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