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Light-Transmitting Concrete Elevates A Pedestrian-Friendly Urban Realm

Authors:
Connie Martiniello, Katrina Newland, Alex Gorecki, Jean Kwak
Light-Transmitting Concrete Elevates A Pedestrian-Friendly Urban Realm

Project in-detail

Elevated above bustling streets, the vibrant urban plaza utilizes light-transmitting concrete and textured surfaces to create an interactive community hub designed for diverse social gatherings and events.
5 key facts about this project
01
The plaza is elevated to create a distinct separation from adjacent vehicular traffic, enhancing pedestrian comfort.
02
Light-transmitting concrete is utilized to allow natural light to permeate both interior and exterior spaces.
03
Textured surfaces are integrated throughout the design to encourage tactile interaction among visitors.
04
A landscaped buffer zone features native plant species, promoting local biodiversity and sustainability.
05
The multipurpose hall is designed to accommodate a wide range of community events, enhancing its versatility.
The architectural project for Piazza Galeno presents a thoughtful and engaging approach to urban public space, aimed at fostering community interaction and enhancing the qualities of a bustling urban environment. This design initiative is set along Regina Margherita Avenue, a site characterized by significant vehicular traffic that necessitates a clear vision for a pedestrian-friendly oasis. The project embodies a commitment to creating a multi-functional public plaza that not only serves as a hub for social gatherings but also as a vital green space amid the urban fabric.

At its core, Piazza Galeno represents a strategic response to the needs of modern urban living. The design embraces the notion that public spaces should be accessible, functional, and inviting, encouraging both leisure and active engagement. With a central multipurpose hall designed to accommodate a variety of events—from community gatherings to cultural exhibitions—the project positions itself as an integral part of the local social infrastructure. This versatile space is elevated, making it a focal point that naturally attracts visitors and promotes a culture of interaction.

Fundamental to the project is its materiality, which has been meticulously chosen to enhance both visual and tactile experiences for visitors. The use of high reflective concrete demarcates important entry points, establishing a clear invitation into the space. Eroded concrete surfaces create areas of interaction, providing texture that invites people to touch and engage with their surroundings. The integration of light transmitting concrete serves a dual purpose: it provides ambient lighting for the hall while reinforcing a connection to the external environment. Meanwhile, colour pigmented concrete is employed strategically to highlight pathways, guiding visitors through the plaza with a clear sense of movement and direction. The thoughtful consideration of concrete paving further enhances the identity of the plaza while ensuring that the design remains cohesive and functional.

Beyond the choice of materials, the layout of Piazza Galeno reflects a careful consideration of the spatial dynamics that facilitate community engagement. Pedestrian pathways are designed to integrate seamlessly with landscaped buffer zones that provide a respite from the bustle of the surrounding streets. This creates a harmonious transition from the busy urban context to the serene environment of the plaza, encouraging people to linger and socialize. The landscaping not only enhances the aesthetic qualities of the design but also promotes sustainability by introducing elements of biodiversity into the urban landscape.

The unique design approach of Piazza Galeno stands out particularly in its holistic understanding of urban design principles. By prioritizing pedestrian experiences and maintaining a clear hierarchy in spatial organization, the project redefines the relationship between built structures and public spaces. The careful configuration of elements ensures that visitors feel both welcomed and engaged, promoting a sense of community ownership over the public space.

This architectural project is a significant step towards reshaping how urban environments can serve their communities. With its thoughtful design, attention to materiality, and emphasis on multifunctional use, Piazza Galeno exemplifies how architecture can respond to the needs of contemporary city life while honoring its context. For readers interested in exploring the intricacies of this project, I encourage you to delve deeper into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that illustrate these innovative architectural ideas in greater detail.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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