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Transparent Glass Enclosure Enhancing Urban Engagement With Reinforced Concrete Structure

Author:
Wenyi Zhu
Transparent Glass Enclosure Enhancing Urban Engagement With Reinforced Concrete Structure

Project in-detail

A transparent glass enclosure juxtaposed with a reinforced concrete structure invites urban residents to engage in a communal swimming experience, seamlessly integrating leisure and social interaction within a vibrant metropolitan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facility incorporates a transparent glass perimeter to enhance visibility and interaction.
02
Concrete construction ensures durability and stability in an urban environment.
03
Inclusive access ramps are designed to meet modern accessibility standards.
04
Surrounding landscaping contributes to improved microclimate and user comfort.
05
Local art elements are integrated, reflecting Milan’s cultural heritage.
The Pop-Up Pool is an innovative architectural project situated in the Parco Archeologico area of Milan, Italy. It serves as a public swimming pool, designed to enhance urban life by providing a communal space for leisure and recreation. The integration of this facility into the urban landscape aims to revive the city’s historical connections with water, fostering social interaction and promoting physical wellness among residents and visitors.

The project unfolds as an elongated structure measuring 82.0 meters in length and 10.0 meters in width with a depth of approximately 1.5 meters. This configuration allows for both casual swimming and effective workout routines. The use of transparent glass for the pool’s perimeter establishes a visual connection between swimmers and onlookers, encouraging community engagement. The architectural choices reflect both modern design principles and a respect for Milan's cultural heritage.

Innovative Use of Materials
A distinctive aspect of the Pop-Up Pool is its material selection. The structure employs transparent glass, concrete, and steel, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. The transparent glass provides opportunities for visibility and interaction, while concrete ensures structural stability and durability. Steel is used for lockers and access chambers, contributing to the overall security and user convenience. This thoughtful combination of materials reinforces the project’s commitment to creating a seamless and inviting public space.

Social and Functional Design Elements
The Pop-Up Pool emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity through well-designed functional zones. Locker and changing facilities are positioned adjacent to the pool, optimizing user experience and facilitating ease of access. Access ramps are incorporated to ensure compliance with modern accessibility standards. The landscape surrounding the pool features vegetation, contributing to a microclimate that enhances visitor comfort and promotes relaxation.

The project stands out by reintroducing the concept of water in an urban context, reflecting a nostalgia for the historical swimming culture in Milan’s canals. It provides not just a swimming facility, but a social gathering point that revitalizes the urban environment. The design encourages interaction among users, creating a sense of community ownership and engagement.

Explore the detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs associated with the Pop-Up Pool for a more comprehensive understanding of its innovative approach and technical specifications. This project reflects how architecture can effectively harness cultural elements to serve contemporary urban needs.
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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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