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Biomimetic Fiber and Integrated Healthcare in Courtyard Residences for Seniors

Authors:
Xiangyu Zhang, Xiaoxi Gu, Yaohong Liu
Biomimetic Fiber and Integrated Healthcare in Courtyard Residences for Seniors
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Incorporating biomimetic fiber and advanced health monitoring systems, the design reimagines communal living for seniors within an interconnected series of courtyard spaces that prioritize social interaction and accessible healthcare.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates biomimetic fiber for enhanced insulation and energy efficiency.
02
Features integrated health monitoring systems for resident safety.
03
Utilizes traditional courtyard layouts to foster community interaction.
04
Strategically positions healthcare facilities for easy access by elderly residents.
05
Integrates advanced air purification systems to improve indoor air quality.

The design focuses on creating a living environment for an aging population, set within an urban context in China. It combines features of traditional architecture with modern needs. The main idea revolves around overlapping courtyards that connect public spaces with residences for elderly individuals. This approach addresses the growing number of older adults, expected to exceed 450 million by 2050. It aims to foster community and enhance the quality of life for residents.

Design Concept

Traditional courtyard dwellings, known as siheyuan, and hutongs form the basis of the design. These architectural elements are familiar to many, encouraging social ties among residents. By integrating these styles, the design seeks to provide both a sense of community and private areas for individual reflection. The layout promotes accessibility, enhancing the interaction between people who live there.

Technological Integration

Technology is essential in improving the living conditions for elderly residents. The project incorporates health monitoring systems that prioritize safety and well-being. These features cater to various mobility and health needs. The use of smart technology ensures that living environments are responsive, providing a well-supported atmosphere for everyone.

Healthcare Accessibility

Healthcare facilities are intentionally positioned within the residential area. This strategic placement allows for easy access to medical services, addressing a significant concern for older adults. By making healthcare more accessible, the design simplifies the process of receiving care. This focus on health resources reinforces the commitment to supporting the needs of the aging population.

Sustainability Features

The design also emphasizes sustainability, using materials and systems that enhance energy efficiency. Solar panels are included to promote renewable energy use. Innovative materials, like biomimetic fiber for insulation, improve comfort while reducing reliance on heating and cooling. Advanced air filtration systems are integrated to ensure a healthy indoor environment, which is crucial for residents’ quality of life.

The layout showcases attention to detail, particularly in creating communal spaces that encourage interaction. These gathering areas are strategically placed, promoting connectivity among residents. This thoughtful arrangement adds to the overall sense of community, fostering a lively atmosphere within the urban setting.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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