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Water-Centric Design With Permeable Paving and Vegetative Walls in Urban Retreat

Authors:
Talitha febriani Soeseno, Nilaye Bhatnagar
Water-Centric Design With Permeable Paving and Vegetative Walls in Urban Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating vegetative walls and permeable paving, this water-focused urban retreat enhances ecological resilience while providing community spaces vital for social engagement and environmental education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a water management system that utilizes natural landscapes to mitigate urban flooding.
02
Features extensive green roofs designed to improve thermal performance and biodiversity.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
04
Integrates community gardens to promote local food production and environmental education.
05
Employs porous paving materials to facilitate rainwater infiltration and reduce runoff.
Rinascimento in Blu is an architectural project located in Milan, Italy, focused on integrating urban development with climate-responsive design. The project emphasizes the role of water in urban environments, addressing multiple challenges related to urban heat management and ecological sustainability. This initiative aims to enhance the city's overall resilience by transforming how urban spaces interact with natural water systems.

The project represents a significant movement towards creating interconnected urban ecologies. It seeks to reconnect residents with their environment, enhancing both ecological awareness and community engagement. By centering on sustainable practices, Rinascimento in Blu redefines the relationship between architecture and its surrounding context.

A primary function of the project is to mitigate the Urban Heat Island Effect (UHIE) prevalent in metropolitan areas. Through extensive use of green infrastructure, the design incorporates elements that promote thermal regulation, air quality improvement, and biodiversity enhancement. Key features include water management systems, community-focused spaces, and mixed-use developments that prioritize accessibility and user engagement.

Unique Design Approaches

One aspect that distinguishes Rinascimento in Blu is its innovative use of water as a central design element. This project incorporates various water management strategies such as rainwater harvesting systems and wetland parks that not only manage stormwater but also create recreational spaces. The use of permeable materials in paving and landscaping enhances water infiltration, reducing runoff and lowering flood risks in urban settings.

Architectural designs feature sustainability-focused materials including reinforced concrete, glass, steel, and green roof systems. The selection of these materials supports the long-term durability of the structures while contributing to the project's environmental goals. The design integrates vegetative walls and urban cool systems that not only contribute to cooling but also foster biodiversity and habitat creation.

Community engagement is another focal point of the project. Public spaces, treatment facilities, and community gardens are organized to foster interaction, education, and well-being. These spaces serve multiple functions, enhancing the urban fabric while providing areas for leisure, social interaction, and community activities.

Holistic Integration of Nature and Urban Elements

Rinascimento in Blu adopts a holistic approach to architectural design by merging built environments with natural systems. This includes the use of evapotranspiration structures that facilitate cooling through vegetation. An emphasis on green spaces and natural habitats aims to improve local biodiversity while providing the community with accessible nature within the urban landscape.

By promoting mixed-use functionalities, the project supports a diverse range of activities, contributing to a vibrant urban life. The integration of educational facilities within the infrastructure encourages a dialogue on climate and environmental issues, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas of Rinascimento in Blu, readers are encouraged to explore the project's presentation. Examining various architectural components will provide a comprehensive understanding of how this project not only addresses immediate urban challenges but also envisions a sustainable future.
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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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