What are some innovative approaches to designing mixed-use developments with green spaces?

Using vegetation as a bioclimatic ally. Greenery can help reduce the effects of weather on buildings when placed judiciously. They can also cool down breezes via shading, foliage and evapotranspiration of the foliage. There are countless ways to integrate these passive solutions into mized use development.

Considering built projects as actual positive contributors to the ecosystem around them, thus re-framing them from 'how can they be less bad' to "how can buildings be a positive addition to the ecosystem, having a light footprint, cycling waste to nutrients, and being generous and inclusive of other species as well" Consider also regenerating urban degraded lands into micro forests using the Miyawaki method for a maintenance-free, place-based landscape that will enhance local biodiversity, infiltrate stormwater and reduce heat island effect

Incorporating vertical gardens and living walls within the mixed-use development to maximize the use of space and provide residents and visitors with a lush, green environment.

Integrating greenery through vertical gardens in mixed-use developments not only enhances aesthetics but also serves as a testament to sustainable urban living. Witnessing thriving plant life on building facades isn't just visually appealing; it contributes to improved air quality, elevates thermal performance, and establishes a welcoming habitat for wildlife. Instances like One Central Park in Sydney and Bosco Verticale in Milan showcase the transformative power of vertical gardens, turning concrete structures into thriving ecosystems. From my viewpoint, this harmonious blend of architecture and nature not only promotes a healthier environment but also fosters a more vibrant and livable urban experience.

O contato com a natureza faz com que as pessoas fiquem mais equilibradas, felizes e produzam mais. A tendência de incorporar espaços verdes às construções foi muito impulsionada após o isolamento das pessoas pela pandemia: as pessoas desejam ficar mais próximas a natureza. As abordagens mais utilizadas nos empreendimentos são os jardins suspensos, coberturas verdes, espaços nas calçadas permeáveis com vegetação, corredores verdes, áreas verdes para descanso com utilização de luz natural. O projeto paisagístico de um empreendimento passou a ser tão importante quanto o arquitetônico.

Converting roof tops to gardens, specially in tropical climates is a fantastic way to improve biodiversity in urban areas . It reduces the need for air conditioning and heating costs in the buildings. Biophilia is a concept that has gained significant momentum for people post the pandemic. As we study the neuroscientific effects of biophilia on the human brain , the experiences have been proven to reduce stress, improve cognitive function, enhance mood, and enhance creativity. If there are no rooftops, hydroponic gardens are a great alternatives to add some greenery to buildings.

Essentially, if you have a flat rooftop, you have a fantastic opportunity to introduce green, foster building user relationships or even increase investment viability (another sellable space). When designing a rooftop green area some vital things must be taken into account - Building Codes : Do the local building codes allow for the space to be used as such? Or will it be considered an extra floor? - Structural Consequence : A rooftop garden or space must never be an afterthought. Building structures are carefully calculated and the weight of elements like steel/wood pergolas and plants at maturity must be taken into acocunt. Roof gardens are an excellent opportunity for increasing the green footprint but must be planned properly.

Rooftop green spaces are an essential part of urban mixed-use development. The green area, required by code and sustainable stormwater strategies, makes a landscaped roof a necessary component of an integrated design solution. The rooftop parks or gardens are one of the most sought-out amenities for new residential or office developments. They also provide a connection to nature in the modern urban workplace. This biophilic design strategy enhances wellbeing and it provides more equitable access to nature.

Creation of Roof top parks is an innovative method of making use of mixed land using green open spaces. These spaces are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable as well. This is because the direct penetrations of sun rays is cut down and pollution free open green spaces are available for the end users.

Rooftop gardens can be imbibe in mixed use building by using the rooftops of buildings for green spaces, such as community gardens, outdoor seating areas, and green roofs to provide a natural and sustainable addition to the development.

Green bridges would also be a great addition to the cityscapes because the streets are rapidly getting over flown with vehicles. This is an effective way to combat the pollution of air. The biodiversity can assist nature move back into concrete jungles and serve the identity of nature integration.

An example of green bridges are those designed to connect different parts of a development or to link buildings across roads or other barriers. They can be used by pedestrians and cyclists and are landscaped with plants, shrubs, and trees. Green bridges not only facilitate movement but also add greenery to urban landscapes, helping to purify air and provide habitats for wildlife.

Los puentes verdes son una gran oportunidad para integrar la naturaleza en la vida cotidiana, utilizar plantas nativas de la zona para afianzar la identidad, además de generar microclimas, mejorar la biodiversidad y sobre todo la experiencia humana al transitar en los espacios urbanos.

9/11 Memorial Park Green Bridge, Copenhagen: In response to the need for a memorial space following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Copenhagen designed a green bridge that serves as both a memorial and a functional urban space. The bridge spans a waterway, connecting different sections of a mixed-use development and integrating nature into the heart of the city.Design the green bridge to serve as a biodiversity corridor, featuring native plants that attract local wildlife. Include bird feeders, nesting boxes, and other elements to encourage the presence of birds and insects. Create opportunities for educational signage along the bridge, informing pedestrians and cyclists about the local flora and fauna.

Creating walkable, interconnected green spaces that prioritize pedestrian access and encourage active transportation, such as walking and cycling, throughout the mixed-use development

Green corridors in mixed-use developments are a great experiential and ecological tool an architect can use. By integrating these linear green spaces into the urban fabric, developments can enhance the urban experience along with the promotion of mobility and walkability. These corridors are vital for cities, improving air quality and contributing to the mitigation of urban heat islands. Urban areas that include features like green corridors not only enhance the environmental and aesthetic quality of the cityscape, but also significantly contribute to the well-being and quality of life of their inhabitants.

I agree, these green corridors can help mitigate urban heat islands and improve air quality. These are linear green spaces that link different areas of a city, such as parks, nature reserves, and other green spaces. They serve as pathways for wildlife and as recreational routes for people.

Green corridors in mixed-use development are of paramount importance as they seamlessly blend environmental sustainability with urban functionality. These user-friendly green spaces transcend mere aesthetics, playing a pivotal role in enhancing the well-being of residents. Serving as vital connectors within the development, they promote active lifestyles by providing pedestrian-friendly pathways for walking and cycling. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these corridors contribute to ecological balance, fostering biodiversity and mitigating the impact of urbanization on local ecosystems.

Nowadays, green corridors are very useful for the environment. Taking lesser space and also providing greenery and hence a healthier environment.

In my experience these are small, modular green spaces that can be integrated into various parts of a mixed-use development, like courtyards, plazas, or even indoors.

Constructed wetlands to treat grey water for non potable water reuse. Water collected from showers and washbasins are collected and treated in a constructed wetland sized to reduce suspended solids, organic carbon and nutrients. Besides reducing water demand it is a functional outdoor green space that will attract multi species.

Pienso que, en la medida de que un proyecto de uso mixto requiera entregar relevancia a la permanencia en las áreas comunes de uso público, la incorporación del verde en estos espacios se hace una necesidad en la búsqueda del confort y la belleza, resultando en una mejor recepción por parte del usuario final al habitar

Introducing urban farms or community gardens within the mixed-use development to promote sustainable, local food production and create a connection between residents and the natural environment

In designing modern urban spaces, we can get creative with sustainability. Using advanced biomaterials using mycelium and algae, we can craft 3D printed living walls on-site, creating natural habitats where different species thrive alongside humans. From my experience, when planning these areas, it's important to think about how the design can adapt to different weather challenges, using nature-based solutions. This not only boosts biodiversity but also makes the space safer, more comfortable, and greener for everyone.

Se réapproprier des friches ou des zones de passage non valorisées dans les villes pour y créer des ilôts de verdure, qui deviennent des zones fonctionnelles, d'usages, de loisirs existants ou à créer, comme des jardins sensoriels, des décors florales participatifs...