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Charred Wood Facades and Therapy Gardens in a Community-Centric Residential Design

Authors:
Atakan Oğuz, Fatma Karlıoğlu
Charred Wood Facades and Therapy Gardens in a Community-Centric Residential Design

Project in-detail

Charred wood facades integrated with therapy gardens create a supportive and interactive environment for an elderly residential community focused on enhancing social engagement and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles create a durable and weather-resistant façade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural performance while reducing environmental impact.
03
Therapy gardens promote interaction and wellness specifically for elderly residents.
04
The bent A-frame design facilitates natural light and views from all living spaces.
05
Community areas are strategically placed to encourage social engagement among residents.
The architectural project "Just a Safer Neighbourhood" is situated in Portugal and focuses on residential living tailored for the elderly community. The design prioritizes interaction and communal living, creating a multifaceted environment that encourages social connections among its residents. This project integrates living spaces with public realms, reinforcing the idea that architecture can foster community engagement and improve quality of life.

The architectural layout consists of various interconnected volumes that serve distinct functions while remaining adaptable to the residents' needs. The building incorporates communal areas such as dining spaces, therapy gardens, and a chapel, designed to facilitate social interactions and activities. The integration of these spaces emphasizes the project’s commitment to a neighborhood model rather than isolated living.

One notable aspect of this design is its material selection, which combines concrete for structural integrity, red brick for warmth, glass for transparency, and wood for organic feel. This diverse material palette enhances the visual complexity of the façade and promotes a sense of belonging among residents. The large windows not only provide natural light but also create sightlines towards communal outdoor areas, further enhancing the connection between interior and exterior.

The approach to outdoor space is particularly significant; therapy gardens and community gardens are incorporated to promote wellness and interaction. These outdoor areas meet both aesthetic and functional requirements, allowing residents to engage in gardening and enjoy nature as part of their daily routines.

Unique to this project is its architectural strategy, labeled "Dispersing & Articulating," which ensures that different volumes are positioned to encourage informal gatherings. This strategy directly facilitates community bonding and interaction, which is essential for elderly residents. The layout is designed to prioritize safety and accessibility, ensuring that all areas are easily navigable for all users.

The floor plan is thoughtfully organized, with the ground floor featuring communal areas that serve as focal points for social activities. Upper levels provide private living spaces, balancing public engagement with personal privacy. This organization reflects a comprehensive understanding of communal and individual living requirements.

For further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas of "Just a Safer Neighbourhood," the project presentation offers a detailed exploration of its design elements and functionality. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into this innovative residential project to understand how it effectively addresses the needs of its community.
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Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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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