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Vertical Greenery and Mesh Facades in Modular Urban Living

Author:
Eva laura Joa joa
Vertical Greenery and Mesh Facades in Modular Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a façade of welded mesh and integrated vertical gardens, this modular housing solution in Milan offers a sustainable approach to urban living by promoting ecological benefits while accommodating diverse residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a façade constructed from welded mesh panels that enhance airflow and light penetration.
02
Integrates vertical gardens on the exterior to promote urban biodiversity and improve air quality.
03
Features a modular design allowing units to be combined or stacked based on site-specific requirements.
04
Incorporates community hubs on the ground floor to foster local economic activity and social interaction.
05
Employs sustainable materials such as concrete and steel, focusing on durability and environmental efficiency.

The "Living Grid" project is an architectural design that addresses contemporary housing challenges in urban settings, specifically aimed at providing affordable living solutions in Milan, Italy. This design employs a modular and flexible approach, consisting of various living unit configurations—1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom layouts. By focusing on scalability, the project ensures adaptability to diverse residential needs and urban requirements.

The primary function of the "Living Grid" is to serve as a sustainable and community-oriented housing solution. Each unit is designed to maximize space efficiency while promoting a sense of community among residents. The integrated environmental strategies enhance livability, focusing not just on individual comfort, but also on collective ecological benefits.

Modular and Scalable Design

A distinctive aspect of the "Living Grid" is its modular architecture. The units can be combined or stacked to create larger living spaces or adapted based on site-specific conditions. This modular design allows for flexibility in urban infill projects, where site dimensions may vary. The project also features commercial spaces on the ground floor, encouraging local economic activities and providing immediate services to residents.

The façade is composed of welded mesh panels that allow for air circulation and enhance natural light penetration, a strategic move that ties into the overall ecological intentions of the design. Vertical gardens adorn these panels, integrating greenery within the building’s structure. This biophilic approach not only improves aesthetics but also promotes biodiversity and enhances the building's thermal performance.

Sustainable Materiality and Community Integration

Material selection plays a vital role in the project. The use of concrete and steel provides structural integrity, while glass elements enhance visibility and connection with the outdoor environment. The planting substrates used for vertical gardening facilitate urban greening and environmental benefits.

The landscape design surrounding the building fosters social interaction among residents. Gathering spaces are interspersed throughout, enhancing communal activities and encouraging a supportive environment. This attention to communal spaces reflects the project’s aim to contribute to urban living while fostering community ties.

The "Living Grid" stands out by embracing a holistic approach to urban housing, where sustainability, modularity, and community integration are prioritized. This project exemplifies modern architectural strategies that respond to urban challenges and promote both individual and collective well-being.

For a more detailed exploration of the "Living Grid" project, including architectural plans, architectural designs, and architectural sections, we invite you to delve into the full project presentation. This deeper look will provide further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that define this important design.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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