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Marble-Clad Towers Surrounded by Terraced Green Spaces in a Community-Centric Urban Setting

Author:
Luciano Schiavone
Marble-Clad Towers Surrounded by Terraced Green Spaces in a Community-Centric Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Marble-clad towers rise from terraced green spaces, integrating public plazas and sustainable materials to create a dynamic urban hub that fosters community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Marble-clad towers integrate with terraced green spaces to enhance urban biodiversity.
02
A unique glazing system incorporates energy-efficient features to optimize natural light.
03
Public plazas are strategically designed to promote social interaction within the community.
04
Sustainable materials, including locally sourced stone, minimize the project's carbon footprint.
05
Vertical circulation connects various building levels, enhancing accessibility and movement.
The Alto Basso architectural project embodies a thoughtful exploration of vertical and horizontal design elements in an urban setting. It juxtaposes high-rise structures with low-lying formations, creating a dialogue between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The project incorporates features that emphasize functionality while promoting community engagement through its integrated public spaces. The duality of design elements reflects the conceptual theme of "high and low," highlighting the relationship between architecture and its context.

Vertical and Horizontal Design Integration

The design of Alto Basso emphasizes the interplay between towering structures and expansive, horizontal elements. The vertical components, represented by glass-clad towers, are structured to maximize natural light and panoramic views, facilitating a strong connection to the environment. The use of transparent materials enhances the experience of space, allowing occupants to feel integrated with their surroundings while providing an ample supply of daylight.

Horizontal elements are characterized by lower structures that seamlessly blend into the landscape, allowing for community-oriented spaces such as terraces and plazas. These areas are designed for public use, encouraging social interaction among residents and visitors. The careful articulation of these spaces contributes to the architectural narrative, blurring the boundaries between built and natural features.

Innovative Material Application and Sustainability

The Alto Basso project demonstrates a unique approach to materiality. The incorporation of glass, concrete, stone, and marble is carefully considered to meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. Glass is utilized extensively in the upper structures to foster transparency and lightness. Concrete is employed in foundational elements for durability and resilience, while stone detailing at the bases of the towers creates a tactile connection to the earth.

The project's commitment to sustainability is evident through the strategic positioning of the buildings to optimize solar access. Sunlight studies inform the design, ensuring that interiors remain bright and inviting while minimizing energy consumption. The integration of green spaces enhances environmental quality and fosters biodiversity, providing both ecological benefits and recreational opportunities for users of the space.

Community-Centric Design Approach

At the core of the Alto Basso project lies a focus on community and connectivity. The design incorporates terraced levels and shared green zones that serve various functions—ranging from dining to social gathering places. This thoughtful arrangement promotes an inclusive environment where individuals can engage with one another while enjoying the natural landscape.

The layout encourages pedestrian movement and supports a vibrant street life, drawing visitors to the area. With its variety of public spaces, the project reflects contemporary trends in urban design that prioritize user experience and interaction. The result is a cohesive architectural composition that not only meets the needs of its inhabitants but also contributes positively to the urban fabric.

For a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that inform the Alto Basso project, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the detailed presentation of the 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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