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Weathered Steel and Meandering Pathways Enhance Community Interaction in Urban Landscape

Authors:
Graciano Macarrón Stamp, Blanca Macarron Jaqueti, Begoña Lazaro Perez, Cristina Duran Salcines
Weathered Steel and Meandering Pathways Enhance Community Interaction in Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing weathered steel and integrated landscaping, the design creates a dynamic pathway that fosters community interaction throughout the urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Weathered steel elements provide durability and enhance the project’s connection to the urban environment.
02
Native plantings create biodiversity while reducing the urban heat effect.
03
Integrated interactive artwork reflects local cultural heritage, enriching user experiences.
04
Meandering pathways encourage exploration, fostering spontaneous social interactions.
05
Underground spaces offer sheltered areas for gatherings and exhibitions, adding depth to the design.
The architectural design project "On The Way" introduces an engaging approach to urban space, specifically within the context of Riga, Latvia. This project represents a thoughtfully curated pathway that connects various community hotspots, promoting interaction and reflection as users navigate through the urban fabric. The path serves as a physical and metaphorical journey, weaving together elements of history, nature, and social connectivity.

The primary function of the project is to enhance the user experience through an engaging landscape design that fosters both individual contemplation and communal interaction. By integrating multifunctional spaces, the project invites users to explore, relax, and connect with each other. The design showcases an ecosystem where various sensory experiences unfold along the path, contributing to a vibrant urban environment.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of "On The Way" is its incorporation of diverse functional areas such as exhibition spaces, seating arrangements, and green zones. These elements are strategically placed along the pathway, facilitating spontaneous interactions and organized gatherings. The layout encourages exploration, as users are drawn through intriguing transitions and varying scales of interaction.

The materiality of the project further enhances its design. Weathered steel is utilized for structural elements, introducing a sense of permanence and strength while harmonizing with the natural surroundings. Timber accents provide warmth and comfort, creating inviting spaces that encourage lingering and social engagement. Concrete is employed to support the durability of pathways, ensuring functional reliability over time. Clear glass structures for exhibition areas allow for a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments, emphasizing transparency and openness.

Ecologically sensitive landscaping plays a critical role in the design of "On The Way." Native plants are incorporated to bolster local biodiversity and create green buffers, moderating the urban heat island effect. This landscaping not only enriches the aesthetic quality of the project but also promotes biodiversity and ecological sustainability within the city.

Architectural Features

The winding pathway is designed to mimic natural trails, contributing to an intuitive and inviting navigational experience. Custom-designed seating areas and rest spots encourage users to pause and engage with their surroundings, while interactive artwork installations reflect the cultural heritage of the region. These aspects foster a sense of place and identity, resonating with the local community.

The project also features underground spaces that provide additional layers of activity and shelter for gatherings and exhibitions. This approach contrasts with the bustling urban life above, creating intimate settings conducive to deeper interactions and reflections.

Exploring the intricacies of "On The Way" through the presentation of architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas will offer deeper insights into the project's comprehensive understanding of urban space. By delving into these elements, readers can appreciate the thoughtful integration of functionality, community engagement, and ecological sensitivity in the project's architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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