5 key facts about this project
## Overview
Located in Milan, Italy, this urban housing project addresses the increasing challenges of residential living in densely populated city environments. With the initiative titled “Why is living in Milan so exhausting?”, the design aims to foster an equitable and sustainable residential experience that enhances urban resilience while contributing positively to the existing urban context.
## Spatial Organization
The design incorporates an innovative urban forest concept, transforming space beneath the residential units into a public communal area that promotes physical connectivity and social interaction among residents. The layout consists of a layered arrangement of residential units:
- **First Floor**: Dedicated to public amenities, providing easy access from the street.
- **Second Floor to Roof Floor**: Housing a diverse range of residential apartments, each equipped with outdoor terraces that offer panoramic views. Hallways are strategically designed to facilitate social engagement among residents, serving as active pathways that encourage community interactions.
## Materiality and Aesthetic Integration
The materials selected for this project reflect a commitment to durability and sustainable practices while aligning with Milan's historic architectural context:
- **Reinforced Concrete**: Provides a strong structural base, allowing for flexibility in design.
- **Glass Windows**: Enhance natural light entry, contributing to energy efficiency and offering views of the urban landscape.
- **Steel Balustrades**: Incorporate safety features while facilitating outdoor living.
- **Natural Stone Facade**: Connects the new structures to the existing historic architecture, maintaining a cohesive aesthetic within the urban environment.
- **Vegetative Elements**: Integrated greenery signifies an adherence to biophilic design principles, enriching both the visual and ecological quality of the project.
Collectively, these design elements create a cohesive architectural language that respects the historical landscape while introducing modern living solutions.