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Seasonal Waterway Transformation With Permeable Pathways and Recycled Materials

Authors:
Isaac Laker, Ryan Small
Seasonal Waterway Transformation With Permeable Pathways and Recycled Materials

Project in-detail

Transforming the historic Navigli canals into vibrant communal spaces with seasonal water features, the design incorporates recycled materials and permeable pathways to create a sustainable urban environment that fosters community engagement and cultural celebration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Seasonal water features allow for dynamic engagement with the canals, fostering community activities in warmer months.
02
Integrates two-way stormwater drains for effective water management and flood prevention.
03
Pathways are designed with permeable paving to enhance rainwater absorption and reduce runoff.
04
Public spaces include accessible pedestrian intersections that encourage cycling and walking.
05
The design maintains historical context while incorporating modern materials like recycled concrete and glass.
The Modern Navigli project seeks to redefine the historic Navigli canals in Milan, Italy, creating a cohesive architectural and urban landscape that emphasizes the relationship between water, community, and sustainability. This project encapsulates a vision of renewed urban life, where the canals serve not only as picturesque waterways but also as functional urban spaces that foster social interaction and environmental awareness.

At its core, the Modern Navigli project represents a bridging of historical significance with contemporary urban needs. The Navigli canals, once vibrant trade routes, are reimagined through thoughtful architectural design, transforming them into lively areas suitable for recreational, cultural, and communal activities. This transformation enhances the identity of the canals and reintegrates them into the daily lives of Milan’s inhabitants, offering spaces that encourage gathering and engagement within the urban fabric.

The functionality of the project is multifaceted. Central to its design is the introduction of seasonal water features, which create an inviting atmosphere during the warmer months. The canals will be filled with water to accommodate summer festivals, effectively turning the waterways into a venue for cultural celebration. This seasonal approach not only brings a cooling effect to the urban environment but also sparks a renewed interest in the canals as places of community interaction.

Key elements of the Modern Navigli project include public squares, pedestrian-friendly walkways, and strategically placed seating areas, all designed to encourage socialization and active use of space. Architectural sections reveal an intricate balance between built structures and natural elements, where landscaped areas seamlessly merge with the water. The pathways and plazas serve as gathering points, enhancing accessibility and movement throughout the site.

In terms of design approach, the project emphasizes sustainability through innovative water management systems. By incorporating two-way stormwater drains, the architects allow for effective drainage and flood management while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing environment. This design integrates environmental responsibility with urban functionality, addressing modern concerns about climate change and urbanization.

The careful selection of materials reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability. Likely materials include recycled concrete for durable pathways, permeable surfaces that facilitate water absorption, and glass elements that reflect the surrounding waterways. Each material is chosen not only for its durability but also for its ability to resonate with the cultural and historical context of the Navigli area.

One of the unique aspects of this architectural endeavor is the emphasis on accessibility. The design introduces key intersections that dip below ground level, creating a seamless flow between different modes of transportation, including walking and cycling. This level of accessibility facilitates a connection between various parts of the city, encouraging the use of public transport and reducing reliance on private vehicles.

Moreover, the project integrates historical and contemporary architectural ideas, ensuring that the existing cultural heritage of the Navigli is preserved while introducing modern design elements that meet the needs of a diverse population. Spaces are designed to be versatile, catering to both quiet reflection and bustling community events, thus fostering a vibrant urban ecosystem.

The anchoring of cultural festivities within the project's framework invites further exploration of the role of architecture in enhancing public life. Specifically, the connections between the design of the canals and local cultural practices are emphasized, presenting opportunities for community members to engage with their environment in new and meaningful ways.

For those interested in further exploring the nuances of the Modern Navigli project, a deeper examination of the architectural plans, sections, and specific design features will provide valuable insights into how this project effectively balances heritage, functionality, and sustainability. The innovative approaches to urban space, public engagement, and environmental responsibility underscore the importance of thoughtful architecture in contemporary urban design. Exploring these elements can offer a richer understanding of how the Modern Navigli project contributes to the evolving narrative of Milan's architectural landscape.
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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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