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Living Roofs and Natural Stone Create Harmony in Urban Waterway Revitalization

Authors:
Dinah Dupiton, Adèle Zgainski
Living Roofs and Natural Stone Create Harmony in Urban Waterway Revitalization

Project in-detail

Incorporating living roofs and natural stone within a landscape revitalized by waterways, the design establishes a unique urban habitat that fosters community engagement and sustainable recreational spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates living roofs designed to enhance local biodiversity and ecological balance.
02
It utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
03
The design features integrated waterways that facilitate both stormwater management and community engagement.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to optimize structural performance while minimizing environmental impact.
05
Public spaces are thoughtfully created to encourage social interaction and promote community cohesion within the urban environment.
The project under analysis is an innovative architectural design located in the Navigli area of Milan, Italy, aimed at revitalizing the historical relationship between the urban landscape and its aquatic heritage. This architectural endeavor represents a thoughtful exploration of how built environments can coexist with natural elements, fostering a stronger connection between people and their surroundings. The project serves multiple functions, providing community spaces that encourage social interaction, as well as recreational areas that invite moments of reflection and engagement with nature.

At the core of this project is the concept of harmonizing the urban design with the natural waterways that once defined Milan’s landscape. The project integrates water features within its architecture, creating spaces that allow for fluid movement both visually and physically. It seeks to create an eco-friendly environment that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area but also contributes positively to the ecological balance. By reinstating the presence of water, the design invokes a sense of nostalgia while ushering in modernity.

Integral to the project are its diverse components, which include communal gardens, pathways, and open plazas. These elements promote a sense of community and provide various opportunities for public engagement. The pathways are designed to facilitate movement through the space, enhancing accessibility and encouraging exploration. The integration of green spaces serves multiple purposes: they are not only visually appealing but also function as recreational areas where individuals can congregate, relax, and interact.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the execution of the design, with a deliberate selection of materials that reflect both sustainability and durability. Concrete is used for its structural integrity, while glass elements bring transparency, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Natural stone complements the landscaping, providing a tactile dimension that enhances the user experience. Furthermore, the implementation of green roofs showcases the project’s commitment to sustainability, improving biodiversity and contributing to urban cooling.

The project distinguishes itself through its unique design approaches. Notably, the historical context of the Navigli region is acknowledged through architectural expressions that resonate with the past, yet are set within a contemporary framework. This balance allows for a narrative that respects history while being forward-thinking. Additionally, the project places a strong emphasis on multi-functionality, accommodating a variety of community needs within a cohesive spatial strategy. The versatility of the spaces allows them to serve as venues for events, gardens for leisure, and marketplaces for local vendors.

Moreover, the design incorporates innovative landscaping techniques, such as "green carpets" that create varied topography, encouraging exploration and enhancing the natural habitat. These design elements not only beautify the environment but also promote ecological health, reinforcing the connection to nature that is central to the project’s ethos. Unique architectural interventions create visual interest and break the monotony of traditional forms, inviting curiosity and engagement from passersby.

This architectural project reflects a sophisticated understanding of urban dynamics and ecological principles, thoughtfully intertwining them into a functional and inviting space. The design encourages community interaction and environmental consciousness, paving the way for future urban developments that prioritize both aesthetic and ecological integrity. For those interested in exploring this project further, architectural plans, architectural sections, and additional architectural designs are available for review, providing deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shape this remarkable project.
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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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