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Biophilic Design Enhanced by Glass Façades and Vertical Gardens for Senior Living

Author:
Nini Ye
Biophilic Design Enhanced by Glass Façades and Vertical Gardens for Senior Living

Project in-detail

Integrating vertical gardens and expansive glass façades, the design offers a biophilic environment that fosters community engagement while providing secure and comfortable living for senior residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a central open theatre designed specifically for community performances and gatherings.
02
Features vertical gardens that enhance residents' connection to nature while improving air quality.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal in the facade.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and structural efficiency.
05
Incorporates wide, accessible corridors that support mobility and foster spontaneous social interactions.
The architectural design project under review presents a housing complex specifically tailored for elderly residents. Strategically configured in a circular formation, the project emphasizes community interaction and individual security. The overall form is designed to enhance social cohesion while ensuring that residents have access to all essential amenities in a safe and inviting environment.

The primary function of this project is to provide a comfortable living space that fosters both independence and community engagement among elderly occupants. The layout features communal areas, private accommodations, and wellness facilities that facilitate an active and fulfilling lifestyle. The use of natural and sustainable materials further underscores the project's commitment to creating a harmonious relationship with the environment.

Thoughtful Spatial Configuration
The design is characterized by its circular layout that encapsulates shared spaces at the center, including an open theatre and swimming pool. This arrangement allows for unobstructed views and seamless access, encouraging residents to engage with one another. The integration of green roofs and vertical gardens enhances the building’s ecological footprint while contributing aesthetic value.

Important elements include wide corridors that promote accessibility and ease of movement, especially for residents with limited mobility. Balconies extend from living units, providing private outdoor spaces that connect residents to their surroundings. Each accommodation unit is designed with an emphasis on comfort, including ample storage and natural light.

Sustainable Material Use
The project incorporates a range of materials that align with sustainable building practices. The use of glass for facades enhances visibility and invites natural light, while concrete provides structural integrity. Wood is integrated within interior spaces to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The inclusion of vegetation in both artificial and natural forms fosters biophilic design principles, promoting well-being and a connection to nature.

Community Engagement Initiatives
Unique to this project is its focus on fostering community engagement through distinct architectural features. The central open theatre serves as a hub for social activities and performances, designed to encourage socialization among residents. This is complemented by landscaped courtyards that provide residents with tranquil spaces to gather, relax, and engage with nature. The thoughtful organization of communal and private areas reflects a deep understanding of the dynamics of elderly living.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural intricacies and innovative design ideas embodied in this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Detailed architectural plans, sections, and design concepts are available for review, offering valuable insights into the functional and aesthetic elements that frame this unique approach to elderly housing.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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