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Tiered Water Features and Natural Stone Pathways Enhance Community Engagement in Urban Green Spaces

Authors:
Jketa Architects, Roha Landscape architects
Tiered Water Features and Natural Stone Pathways Enhance Community Engagement in Urban Green Spaces

Project in-detail

With cascading tiered waterfalls and vibrant landscaped gardens crafted from natural stone, the design revitalizes the urban waterfront, fostering community interaction and offering recreational spaces for all.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates cascading tiered waterfalls that enhance both aesthetic appeal and natural soundscapes.
02
Natural stone pathways connect various recreational areas and promote ecological harmony.
03
Interactive art installations invite community engagement and cultural expression throughout the space.
04
The project prioritizes inclusive design, ensuring accessibility for all demographics in public areas.
05
Landscape architecture emphasizes biodiversity, featuring native plant species to support local ecosystems.
The project "La Darsena di Milano" is a significant architectural endeavor that aims to revitalize the historical waterways and public spaces of Milan, Italy. This project reflects a thoughtful integration of community engagement and environmental sustainability, creating an inviting urban environment that allows for social interaction, cultural events, and recreational activities.

The design represents a harmonious blend of Milan's rich heritage and contemporary urban needs. By restoring access to the waterways, it seeks to reconnect citizens with the natural elements of the city while promoting a healthier lifestyle through outdoor activities. The functionality of the project is multifaceted, providing areas for relaxation, play, and communal gatherings, thus effectively transforming the urban experience for both residents and visitors.

Central to the project is a series of water features, including a navigable canal and expressive tiered waterfalls. These attributes not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the ecological balance of the area. The waterways are surrounded by landscaped gardens, which provide a lush environment that invites users to engage with nature. The incorporation of natural elements such as trees, shrubs, and grass creates a tranquil setting that serves as a respite from the urban bustle.

Significant attention has been given to the details of communal spaces within "La Darsena di Milano." The design features a children's playground integrated into the landscape, encouraging families to gather and fostering a sense of community. Additionally, small retail kiosks and food stands throughout the project promote local commerce, inviting residents to enjoy the public spaces and supporting the local economy. The architecture embraces inclusivity, making the area accessible and welcoming to all demographics.

Artistic elements are a defining feature of the design, with sculptures and interactive installations strategically placed to enhance the spatial experience. The presence of art not only beautifies the landscape but also enriches cultural engagement, turning the area into a cultural hub for artistic expression. Furthermore, the design anticipates future community events, such as performances and public gatherings, by including an open-air theater that can accommodate various activities and showcases.

From a materiality perspective, the project adopts a materials palette that emphasizes durability while promoting sustainability. It is assumed that natural stone, concrete, glass, and metal will be prevalent throughout the construction, with the intention of creating spaces that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Consideration for eco-friendly materials further reinforces the project's commitment to environmental sustainability and resilience against climate change.

One unique design approach evident in "La Darsena di Milano" is its sensitivity to the city’s historical context and ecological importance. Rather than imposing a modernist vision, the architects have chosen to work within and enhance the existing landscape, highlighting historical waterways and fostering biodiversity. This thoughtful extraction of historical elements juxtaposed against modern architectural ideas captures the essence of Milan's identity while looking forward to future urban development.

Exploring "La Darsena di Milano" offers an opportunity to delve deeper into specific architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shape this comprehensive project. By examining the various elements presented, readers can gain significant insights into how architecture can effectively bridge community needs and environmental considerations within an urban context. For those interested in understanding the nuances of contemporary urban development, a closer inspection of this architectural project is invaluable.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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