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Cascading Terraces With Textured Stucco and Natural Light for Elderly Living

Author:
Siyuan tea Liu
Cascading Terraces With Textured Stucco and Natural Light for Elderly Living

Project in-detail

Cascading terraces enhance natural light and community interaction in a residential space designed for elderly living, utilizing textured stucco and local materials to create an inviting environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cascading terraces are integrated into the hillside, enhancing views and accessibility.
02
Textured stucco exterior reflects local architectural traditions while providing insulation.
03
Room layouts are modular, allowing for adaptability to residents' changing needs.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically positioned atriums and openings.
05
Community gardens promote social interaction and connect residents with nature.

The architectural project "Step to the Hill" represents a residential design specifically tailored for elderly occupants. Located in Portugal, this project draws inspiration from traditional terraced villages while integrating seamlessly with the site's natural topography. The design emphasizes accessibility and community interaction, creating a living environment that supports the needs and well-being of its residents.

The primary function of this project is to provide a supportive and comfortable living space for elderly individuals. It includes a variety of shared and private spaces, enabling social engagement while addressing personal privacy needs. The layout of the building follows the slope of the hillside, incorporating terraces that enhance views and natural light access, thus creating an inviting atmosphere for its residents.

The unique design approaches implemented in "Step to the Hill" include its community-centric layout and thoughtful engagement with the surrounding environment. Each living unit is strategically positioned to ensure residents have direct access to communal areas such as dining rooms, activity spaces, and gardens. This layout fosters social interaction and mitigates feelings of isolation among residents.

Architectural plans illustrate the project's thoughtful response to its site. The building's form is dictated by the terrain, allowing for a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The use of lightweight concrete and textured stucco contributes to both structural stability and visual harmony. The choice of materials reflects local architectural traditions while aligning with modern sustainability practices.

The integration of sustainable design elements is another hallmark of this project. Solar panels installed on the roof offer renewable energy solutions, while rainwater harvesting systems serve to minimize resource consumption. Together, these features contribute to lower operational costs and a reduced environmental footprint.

In examining the architectural sections, it becomes evident how the design prioritizes natural ventilation and light. Generous openings and oriented atriums ensure that all living spaces benefit from cross-ventilation and daylight, improving indoor air quality and enhancing residents' comfort.

Overall, "Step to the Hill" is distinguished by its emphasis on adaptable living environments, its harmonious integration with the landscape, and its thoughtful application of sustainable practices. Together, these elements redefine elderly housing by prioritizing community and individual well-being.

For further examination of the project's architectural plans, sections, and innovative design strategies, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation of "Step to the Hill." By reviewing these elements, stakeholders can better understand the architectural ideas and functional considerations that shaped this project.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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