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Vertical Gardens and Welded Mesh Frame Redefine Urban Living Spaces in Milan

Author:
Eva laura Joa joa
Vertical Gardens and Welded Mesh Frame Redefine Urban Living Spaces in Milan

Project in-detail

Incorporating vertical gardens alongside a durable welded mesh framework, this housing initiative transforms urban living in Milan by providing adaptable, sustainable units for diverse communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes a welded mesh façade that enhances both ventilation and aesthetic appeal.
02
Vertical gardens are integrated into the design, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality.
03
Prefabricated living units allow for rapid assembly and adaptability in urban spaces.
04
Each residential unit is designed to maximize natural light through large glass panels.
05
The housing initiative emphasizes community interaction through shared outdoor spaces.
The Living Grid project is an architectural initiative conceived to provide efficient and adaptable housing solutions in the urban context of Milan. Designed with the intent to address the contemporary housing challenges faced by densely populated cities, this project represents a thoughtful response to the demand for affordable living spaces without sacrificing design quality. The project’s core function is to offer prefabricated units which can be tailored to meet varying residential needs, reflecting a progressive approach to urban living.

At its essence, the Living Grid project is a blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal, demonstrating how architecture can facilitate community living while considering environmental imperatives. The design features three distinct types of living units: one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom configurations. Each unit is designed with a focus on maximizing usable space while providing comfort for residents. The dimensions, ranging from 47 m² to 65 m², are optimized to cater to diverse family sizes and lifestyle preferences.

The architectural design embraces a modern material palette that emphasizes durability and sustainability. The structural framework is primarily composed of steel beams and columns, which provide necessary support and flexibility for the building. Concrete is utilized extensively in the construction of residential units, ensuring strength while contributing to the overall contemporary façade. A unique feature of the design is the use of welded mesh for the exterior, which not only serves as a decorative element but also enhances ventilation, allowing for better air circulation throughout the spaces.

Furthermore, the integration of large glass panels is a hallmark of the Living Grid architecture. These panels facilitate an abundance of natural light, creating bright and inviting interiors that promote well-being among occupants. The relationship between the indoor and outdoor environments is integral to the design, encouraging a seamless transition that enhances the living experience.

A distinctive aspect of the Living Grid project is its commitment to sustainability and ecological design. The incorporation of vertical gardens serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also contributes to improving air quality and fostering biodiversity within the urban environment. This green aspect of the design encourages residents to engage with nature, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life.

The Living Grid project is deeply rooted in its context, consciously striving to harmonize with the dense urban fabric of Milan. By prioritizing shared spaces, the design promotes a sense of community among residents, facilitating social interaction and collective ownership in the living environment. The project seeks to redefine the concept of urban housing by integrating flexibility in design, which allows for potential alterations in response to evolving community needs.

In summary, the Living Grid project stands as a noteworthy exploration of contemporary housing solutions in architecture, showcasing how design can effectively meet the challenges of urban density. By emphasizing adaptability, sustainability, and community integration, it provides a relevant case study for future housing initiatives. For readers interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, exploring this project further will reveal additional insights into its innovative approaches and practical applications in urban housing.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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