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Bamboo Louvers and Green Roofs Enhance Elderly Living in Sustainable Community Facility

Author:
Juanita Ramirez
Bamboo Louvers and Green Roofs Enhance Elderly Living in Sustainable Community Facility

Project in-detail

With its carefully designed bamboo louvers and an expansive green roof, the facility promotes environmental sustainability while providing a supportive community environment for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates bamboo louvers to enhance natural ventilation and privacy.
02
Features a green roof that promotes biodiversity and assists in stormwater management.
03
Utilizes concrete for structural elements combined with warm wood finishes for comfort.
04
Includes multiple communal areas to facilitate social interaction among residents.
05
Designed for optimal accessibility, ensuring ease of movement throughout the facility.
Casa do Repouso de Leiria is a dedicated facility for elderly care located in Portugal. The project focuses on fostering a sense of community while ensuring the comfort and privacy of its residents. This architectural design emphasizes functionality, providing various communal and private spaces that cater specifically to the needs of senior citizens. The careful consideration of spatial organization and material selection enables a harmonious living environment.

Design Intent and Functionality

The primary function of Casa do Repouso de Leiria is to serve as a residence for the elderly, offering spaces for both individual living and community activities. The layout is intentionally designed to balance privacy and social interaction. The building consists of multiple levels, including private suites, communal dining areas, a library, and therapy rooms. This configuration allows for easy accessibility while promoting engagement among residents. The integration of outdoor spaces, including landscaped areas and a green roof, further enhances the living experience by providing areas for relaxation and socialization.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive elements of Casa do Repouso de Leiria is its blending of modern architectural practices with a focus on the well-being of the elderly. The use of large glass windows creates transparency and fosters a connection between the interior and the exterior. This design choice not only maximizes natural light but also encourages residents to engage with the outside environment. The incorporation of bamboo louvers provides both shading and privacy, ensuring comfort without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.

The layout promotes a clear hierarchy between public and private spaces. Common areas are strategically positioned to encourage interactions among residents, while private accommodations are designed to ensure tranquility. This thoughtful division is complemented by the selection of durable materials such as concrete for the structure, wood for paneling, and glass for transparency, all of which support the longevity and functionality of the facility.

Architectural Features and Materials

Key architectural features of Casa do Repouso de Leiria include the extensive use of glass, which facilitates light penetration and connects the residents with nature. The presence of varied communal spaces allows for diverse social opportunities and activities. The building's green roof contributes to environmental sustainability and provides an additional recreational area for residents.

Materials used throughout the project include concrete for structural integrity, bamboo for aesthetic and functional louver systems, and wood to create a warm atmosphere within living spaces. This careful selection of materials not only addresses the practical needs of the facility but also enhances the overall design quality.

To gain deeper insights into Casa do Repouso de Leiria, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented. By examining these elements, one can appreciate the project's comprehensive approach to elderly care and its architectural concepts.
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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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