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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

Project in-detail

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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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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