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Sound-Absorbing Modular Panels and Interactive Surfaces Transforming Milan's Urban Transit Experience

Author:
Martina Borney
Sound-Absorbing Modular Panels and Interactive Surfaces Transforming Milan's Urban Transit Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing sound-absorbing modular panels and flexible interactive surfaces, the installation enhances the commuter experience within Milan's Metro by fostering engagement and reducing noise in urban transit environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interactive surfaces invite commuter engagement through responsive design.
02
Sound-absorbing materials minimize noise pollution in the transit environment.
03
Modular panels allow for flexible configuration tailored to specific spaces.
04
Natural wood finishes create warmth and a connection to organic materials.
05
Designed to enhance the overall user experience in a high-traffic setting.

## Project Overview

"Traces in Dialogue" is an architectural initiative situated within the Milan Metro system, developed in partnership with Federlegnoarredo. The project aims to enhance the passenger experience by creating a more engaging and interactive environment in transit spaces. By exploring the relationship between users and the metro infrastructure, the design seeks to cultivate a dialogue that bridges technology and human activity, ultimately transforming the way individuals experience public transit stations.

### Spatial Interventions

The project incorporates a range of spatial interventions that prioritize usability and visual engagement. Key design elements include modular panels that adapt to the vertical surfaces of the metro walls, contributing to both acoustic management and aesthetic vibrancy. Interactive features are integrated throughout the installations, encouraging user participation and fostering a dynamic relationship between commuters and their surroundings. The concept of "Siluets in Dialogue" further enhances this engagement, using visual stimuli to connect passengers with their environment based on their movements within the space.

## Material Selection

Materiality plays a crucial role in achieving both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. Innovative materials have been selected to create an immersive experience for commuters. Adhesive PVC is employed for its flexibility and versatility, while wood is used to introduce warmth and a sense of familiarity to the urban setting. Additionally, sound-absorbing panels help mitigate noise, enhancing acoustic comfort during travel. The incorporation of modular panels not only supports the interactive character of the installations but also aligns with the overall design narrative, allowing for a cohesive and adaptive environment across the transit system.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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