Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Sustainable Living in a Community-Centric Residence

Author:
Sakoudom Soth
Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Embrace Sustainable Living in a Community-Centric Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles alongside cross-laminated timber, the design prioritizes sustainability while providing a community-focused residence for elderly inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with interlocking cubes to enhance spatial flow and community interaction.
02
Central courtyard promotes outdoor engagement and nature access for residents.
03
Incorporates walkable roofs to expand usable outdoor space and encourage activity.
04
Employs natural insulation materials for improved energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Strategically positioned 10 meters from the main street to reduce noise pollution.
The Harkany Elderly House is an architectural project designed with a specific focus on providing a comfortable living environment for elderly residents. This facility is strategically located approximately 10 meters away from the main street, minimizing noise pollution and creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and community engagement. The overall design emphasizes a modular configuration, consisting of interlocking cubes that not only define the building's massing but also enhance the flow and interactivity of its spaces.

The primary function of the Harkany Elderly House is to serve as a supportive living space that meets the unique needs of its inhabitants. It incorporates various communal areas, individual living units, and essential services, including administrative offices, a clinic, and recreational facilities. This arrangement fosters social interaction among residents while ensuring easy access to necessary amenities.

Architectural Integration of Nature

A standout feature of the Harkany Elderly House is its integration of outdoor spaces, highlighted by a central courtyard. This area serves as a critical component for promoting wellness, providing a peaceful retreat where residents can engage with nature. The inclusion of walkable flat roofs extends the available outdoor space, encouraging physical activity and social gatherings, a unique design approach that distinguishes this project from others.

In terms of materials, the Harkany Elderly House demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through the use of locally sourced, recyclable, and natural insulation materials. The design prioritizes energy efficiency by maximizing natural light with large window openings, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This focus on environmentally conscious choices underpins the architectural philosophy of the project.

Community-Centric Design Elements

The layout of the Harkany Elderly House is meticulously crafted to balance private and communal spaces. Individual apartment units are arranged along open corridors that lead into shared community areas, promoting interaction while respecting the privacy of residents. Every aspect of the design is intended to support a sense of community among the elderly, with flexible spaces designed to accommodate both personal and group activities.

The project also incorporates thermal regulation systems to enhance comfort while reducing energy costs. The use of natural materials further contributes to a comfortable indoor climate, ensuring that the living environment remains pleasant throughout varying weather conditions.

For further detailed exploration, readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with the Harkany Elderly House. These elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas that underpin this project and its thoughtful response to the needs of its residents.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy