E19: Topic
Re-sourcing 2: Rethinking resources
Both large and small cities, as well as urban landscapes, face the challenge of developing the built environment in harmony with natural processes. The Europan 19 competition invites young architects and planners from across Europe to explore new design strategies and use them to create projects that make the most of existing resources, rather than relying on demolition and new construction. Three guiding principles define the E-19 competition:
1. Natural elements as design partners
Water, air, soil and energy shape our cities, yet these elements are often perceived as risks rather than opportunities. The aim is to harness this potential and integrate it with existing structures rather than building in opposition to them.
2. New ways of living and different spaces
Digital transformation is not only shaping social coexistence, but also how we live and work. There is a need for urban and architectural spaces that redefine the relationship between intimacy, community, and solidarity. Taking inspiration from bioclimatic and permaculture principles, these spaces must consider non-human factors.
3. Building with what is already there
Buildings and existing infrastructure are repositories of materials. Reduce, reuse, recycle: Rather than constantly constructing new buildings, we should transform existing ones and reconsider the local use of materials. This creates resource-efficient architecture that deserves its name. The aim of the competition is to develop ideas that can transform neglected, derelict, empty, stigmatised or single-purpose urban spaces into vibrant, inclusive, mixed-use spaces once more.