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Purification Systems Enhancing Ganges Rituals Through Community Spaces

Authors:
Qiyu Tang, Xueyin Yan, Wanchao Yang
Purification Systems Enhancing Ganges Rituals Through Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Advanced purification systems integrate with community pathways and ritual spaces along the Ganges, fostering a harmonious connection between local cultural practices and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Advanced purification systems designed to cleanse river water in real-time.
02
Integrated pathways enhance accessibility for pilgrims and local residents.
03
Civic spaces are created to support community gatherings and traditional rituals.
04
Water transport systems distribute purified water to nearby areas.
05
Emphasis on sustainability reflects the cultural significance of the Ganges.

The project "Rebirth of Holy Water: Purification of Ganges River in Varanasi" focuses on addressing environmental issues while respecting the cultural significance of the Ganges River. Varanasi, known for its profound spiritual importance to Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains, serves as the backdrop for this initiative. The aim is to purify the river and create spaces that support community interaction and traditional practices. The approach is built on integrating ecological solutions with deep reverence for the river’s legacy.

Purification Systems

At the heart of the design are advanced systems intended to purify the Ganges. Currently, the river suffers from serious pollution, which includes waste and organic debris. The proposed purification systems work diligently to cleanse the water, focusing on functionality without disrupting the river’s sacred atmosphere. These systems promise to contribute positively to both the ecosystem and the health of the local community.

Pilgrimage Pathways

Pathways have been strategically integrated to improve access to the river. These routes are designed to accommodate those who come to bathe and practice rituals along the banks. They allow visitors to engage deeply with the river while promoting cleanliness and hygiene. The pathways create a physical and spiritual link between daily life and the significant cultural practices that define Varanasi.

Civic Spaces

Civic spaces are incorporated along the river, designed to facilitate social gatherings and community events. These areas encourage local residents to come together, strengthening their connection to each other and the river. By offering open spaces that are welcoming and accessible, the design enhances the cultural experience for both locals and visitors, reinforcing the river's pivotal role in community life.

Water Transport Systems

Efficient water transport systems outline the framework for distributing purified water throughout the area. These systems emphasize sustainability and ensure that clean water is available to the community. By addressing the need for accessible clean water, the design directly supports public health while also reinforcing the importance of caring for the river and its ecosystem.

The overall design incorporates practical elements that respect the natural environment and the spiritual significance of the Ganges. Key features invite participation, encouraging a deeper relationship with the river while supporting the day-to-day lives of those in Varanasi.

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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

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