Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Reflective Blue Glass Surfaces and Natural Wood Integration Transform Urban Waterway into a Community Haven

Author:
Olga Rolff
Reflective Blue Glass Surfaces and Natural Wood Integration Transform Urban Waterway into a Community Haven

Project in-detail

Reflecting the tranquil essence of the Navigli canal, the careful integration of blue glass and natural wood fosters a harmonious community space that invites residents and visitors to engage with nature while enjoying recreational activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates reflective blue glass to enhance interaction with the canal's surface.
02
The project utilizes locally sourced wood to strengthen community ties and environmental responsibility.
03
Seating modules are strategically placed to encourage socialization and outdoor engagement.
04
Integrated walking paths meander through lush greenery, promoting ecological diversity.
05
Multifunctional spaces accommodate various community activities and events throughout the year.
The architectural project known as Cassina de Pom is situated in Milan, Italy, where it serves as both a public space and a cultural node. This design initiative reflects a thoughtful integration of history, community engagement, and ecological concerns, aligning the built environment closely with the natural landscape of the Navigli canal. The project promotes accessibility and encourages social interaction among residents and visitors alike through a variety of multifunctional spaces.

At its core, Cassina de Pom represents a reimagining of urban experience, emphasizing the importance of public landscapes in fostering community relationships. The design seeks to revive an underutilized area by creating environments where people can gather, exercise, and interact with nature. The project’s programming includes a central square for events, an outdoor gym, a playground for various age groups, and a network of walking paths surrounded by greenery. Each component has been carefully designed to enhance both utility and aesthetics, promoting a culture of leisure and health in the urban setting.

Key elements of the project reveal a thoughtful engagement with functionality and design. The central square stands as a vital gathering point, framed by various amenities that facilitate events and interactions. Its open layout is conducive to multifunctional uses, allowing for everything from casual meetings to organized cultural activities. This versatility reflects a growing trend in urban planning that prioritizes adaptability in public spaces.

The integration of accessible walking paths is another essential aspect of the design. These pathways guide visitors along the water’s edge, encouraging leisurely strolls and promoting non-motorized transport options. The beauty of the paths lies not only in their practical purpose but also in their seamless connection to the surrounding greenery, which fosters a sense of tranquility. Furthermore, seating modules strategically placed along these routes offer repose and enhance social engagement, inviting visitors to pause and enjoy the surroundings.

A notable aspect of the project is its innovative use of materials, which contributes to both the aesthetics and sustainability of the space. The selection of blue glass highlights reflections of the canal and sky, creating a dynamic interplay of light and color that enhances the sensory experience of the area. Wood has been chosen for various elements, including playground equipment and benches, emphasizing a connection to nature and ensuring both durability and comfort. Stone is utilized for pathways and seating areas, providing a solid contrast to the softer elements of grass and gravel landscaping. Collectively, these materials not only fulfill functional roles but also create a cohesive visual narrative that resonates with the surrounding environment.

Unique design approaches characterize the architecture of Cassina de Pom, particularly in how it merges ecological considerations with community needs. The project is not simply an addition to the urban landscape, but rather a transformation that acknowledges and respects the natural heritage of the Navigli canal. This dual focus on community and nature embodies a contemporary architectural ethos, promoting spaces that are inclusive and environmentally friendly.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural intricacies of Cassina de Pom, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide further insights into its conceptual and functional aspects. The thoughtful interplay between design and urban ecology presents an opportunity for readers to appreciate the nuanced intentions behind this project, enriching their understanding of contemporary urban architecture. Engage with the project presentation to discover more about the innovative architectural ideas that shape this unique urban space.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy