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Gabion Structures and Local Artisanal Crafts in a Multi-Functional Public Space

Author:
Diego A Gonzalez Ramirez
Gabion Structures and Local Artisanal Crafts in a Multi-Functional Public Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced gabions and integrating community art, the development serves as a vibrant public space that fosters economic activity and social interaction in the heart of Colombia.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced river stones within gabion structures for both aesthetic and structural purposes.
02
Incorporates artwork from local artisans, enhancing cultural representation throughout the space.
03
Features multi-functional platforms adaptable for various community activities and seasonal events.
04
Connects five distinct cultural regions of Colombia, fostering social and economic integration.
05
Prioritizes sustainability through the use of renewable materials and community involvement in construction.

### Overview
Parada Dorada is an architectural and urban design initiative located in Colombia, aimed at enhancing social cohesion and stimulating local economies through the establishment of vibrant public spaces. This project seeks to address spatial and economic disparities by linking previously isolated areas, fostering cultural exchange among diverse communities.

### Spatial Configuration and Materiality
The spatial strategy employs interconnected platforms and open areas that promote pedestrian movement and social interaction among vendors, visitors, and local artisans. Artistic features, including murals and landscaping, contribute to an inviting environment. The design is characterized by the extensive use of steel gabions, crafted by local artisans and filled with indigenous river stones, which connect the project to its ecological context. The integration of local building materials highlights a commitment to sustainability, minimizing transportation-related carbon emissions while celebrating local craftsmanship through the inclusion of woven baskets and pottery as integral design elements.

### Community Engagement and Infrastructure Integration
Active participation of local residents is a fundamental aspect of the project, ensuring that the developed space reflects community needs and preferences. Plans for workshops and events will foster local ownership, while vendor areas will support regional agriculture and economic viability. The project strategically connects with existing infrastructure, including roads and bridges traversing the Andes, enhancing accessibility for both residents and tourists. Furthermore, the design's multicultural representation captures the sociocultural diversity of Colombia, incorporating elements from five distinct cultural regions and emphasizing inclusivity throughout the architectural narrative.

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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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