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Sustainable Urban Oasis Featuring Photovoltaics and Green Canopies

Author:
Justice Iroegbu
Sustainable Urban Oasis Featuring Photovoltaics and Green Canopies

Project in-detail

With a network of solar panels and abundant green canopies, this Milan-based urban park seamlessly integrates renewable energy and natural beauty to create a community space that encourages active lifestyles and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a network of 60 solar panels to support energy needs and promote sustainability.
02
Utilizes indigenous plant species in landscaping to enhance biodiversity and reduce water consumption.
03
Features dedicated bicycle paths that ensure safe and efficient transportation within the urban environment.
04
Includes seating areas enclosed by hedges, promoting privacy and encouraging social interactions.
05
Employs energy-efficient lighting powered by solar energy for enhanced safety and usability during nighttime.
The architectural design project of Via Senato Via Marina Park is an insightful response to the urban needs of Milan, aiming to create a harmonious relationship between green space and the built environment. This project represents a pivotal shift towards integrating nature within urban landscapes, fostering community interactions, and advocating for sustainability. Serving as a green oasis amid the bustling city, the park encourages a sense of well-being, recreation, and social engagement.

The primary function of the Via Senato Via Marina Park is to provide a multifunctional public space that promotes active lifestyles and facilitates urban mobility. It offers a well-structured environment for pedestrians and cyclists, effectively reducing the dependence on cars while enhancing access to essential city amenities. By featuring dedicated pathways, the design integrates safe routes for both modes of transport, encouraging active commuting while maintaining user safety.

Key elements of the project include carefully designed pathways flanked by lush vegetation, which provide both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. The existing trees are preserved and conditioned into the design, allowing for natural shade and contributing to a more pleasant microclimate within the urban setting. The park also features multiple seating areas, arranged to foster interaction. These spaces are designed with attention to privacy and comfort, often enclosed by hedges, which helps create a welcoming atmosphere suitable for reading, socializing, and enjoying nature.

A notable aspect of the design is the emphasis on renewable energy. The installation of monocrystalline solar panels not only serves the park's electrical needs but also reflects the commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality. The project exemplifies how parks can be designed to support energy generation, integrating sustainable technology seamlessly within its infrastructure. Additionally, the use of energy-efficient lighting enhances both safety and visibility, encouraging the park's use during evening hours.

Water conservation and management are integral to the project, with landscaping strategies that promote ecological balance. Native plant selections and sustainable turf grass are employed, reducing water usage and maintenance needs over time. This design approach speaks to a larger narrative in architecture where ecological sensitivity is paramount.

Unique design approaches are evident in the thoughtful layout and community-inclusive amenities. The park includes charging stations for electric bicycles, which thoughtfully address contemporary transportation needs and showcase a forward-thinking perspective on urban mobility. The inclusion of recreational spaces for games, reading, and gatherings emphasizes the park's role as a community hub, fostering social interactions and enhancing neighborhood ties.

Through its design, Via Senato Via Marina Park stands as a testament to how urban spaces can be planned with an ecological perspective while enhancing the quality of life for residents. This project illustrates the potential for public parks not just as passive green spaces but as active contributors to urban life and sustainability. It serves as an invitation for exploration and engagement with nature.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural aspects of Via Senato Via Marina Park, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design features, exploring the project presentation will provide comprehensive insights. The thoughtful integration of architecture and landscape design makes this project a valuable case study in contemporary urban planning.
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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
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