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Repurposed Containers Integrating Green Spaces in Urban Living

Authors:
Francesco Niten Mattioli, Alex Scorrano
Repurposed Containers Integrating Green Spaces in Urban Living
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Repurposed shipping containers form a network of elevated pathways and green spaces that enhance urban living while promoting community engagement and environmental sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Repurposed shipping containers form the main structure, enhancing sustainability.
02
Elevated cycle-pedestrian pathways promote safe and efficient movement through the site.
03
Green spaces are integrated throughout, fostering community interaction and ecological health.
04
Flexible design accommodates future modifications for evolving residential needs.
05
The project prioritizes accessibility, ensuring all spaces are user-friendly for pedestrians and cyclists.

NІSH is an architectural design that seeks to enhance urban living by incorporating nature within a bustling neighborhood. The project aims to create a space where community life flourishes, fostering connections among residents while encouraging a commitment to environmental health. Inspired by the balanced habitat of the Australian coral reef, NІSH translates these ecological principles into an urban setting, prioritizing green spaces alongside the built environment.

Design Concept and Green Spaces

The design focuses on restoring and integrating green areas throughout the community. By doing so, it creates opportunities for residents to engage with nature and each other. The presence of greenery contributes to the local ecosystem, making the area more inviting and beneficial for both social interaction and biodiversity. This thoughtful approach underscores the importance of considering environmental elements in urban planning.

Innovative Pathways

One notable aspect of NІSH is the introduction of elevated pathways for cyclists and pedestrians. These pathways allow for smooth movement across the area, minimizing the impact of cars and reducing congestion. By elevating foot and bike traffic, the design encourages a healthier lifestyle and enhances the safety of public spaces. This focus on accessible movement reflects a commitment to fostering a more sustainable and user-friendly urban environment.

Flexibility in Use

Flexibility plays a vital role in the design of NІSH. The layout has been carefully planned to accommodate future changes and expansions. This adaptability means that residential and commercial modules can develop according to community needs over time. By designing for change, the project ensures it can remain relevant and functional as the neighborhood evolves.

Repurposed Housing Modules

The design includes housing units made from containers that are sourced from the nearby commercial port. Using these materials demonstrates a focus on cost-effectiveness and sustainability. By repurposing containers, the project reduces waste while providing sturdy living spaces that meet modern demands. This approach aligns well with broader goals of minimizing ecological impact in construction.

Within NІSH, a network of landscaped areas and interconnected pathways brings the spirit of nature directly into urban life. This integration creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages people to enjoy outdoor spaces, fostering community ties in a balanced environment.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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