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Charred Wood Shingles and Local Stone Enhance Community Living in Natural Harmony

Authors:
William Benjamin, Steven Buenas
Charred Wood Shingles and Local Stone Enhance Community Living in Natural Harmony
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Incorporating charred wood shingles and local stone, the design creates a harmonious environment that fosters community living for elderly residents while prioritizing accessibility and natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced stone to enhance environmental integration.
02
Features a unique bent A-frame design to maximize structural efficiency.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes designated "Blue Zones" to promote social interaction and active living.
05
Integrates extensive greenery throughout to foster a connection with nature.

### Location and Context

The project is located in Portugal, designed to integrate with the existing topography of a hilly site. It serves a community-oriented purpose, specifically tailored to support an elderly population by promoting social interaction and encouraging physical activity.

### Spatial Strategy and Accessibility

The architectural layout responds thoughtfully to the natural slopes of the landscape. Building arrangements are organized to enhance universal accessibility, featuring gradual ramps that ensure ease of movement for residents with varying mobility needs. This aspect aligns with the historical context of Portuguese towns, characterized by their narrow, sloping streets. Architectural forms exhibit organic shapes that reflect the undulating terrain, allowing for interconnected spaces that facilitate smooth transitions within the community.

The design includes diverse communal areas such as a café/bar, library, kitchen, therapy room, and dining area, all strategically positioned to enhance social engagement among residents. An entry courtyard serves as a focal point for gatherings, surrounded by accessible pathways and gardens. Specific zones, labeled as "Blue Zones," are established to promote active lifestyles and encourage interaction, contributing to an overall enhanced quality of life.

### Materiality and Environmental Considerations

Local stone is a primary material choice, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, while also allowing for optimal light and air circulation within the interiors. Integrated wooden elements, including privacy screens and trellises, create shaded areas that maintain visual connections with nature.

Sustainability is central to the design, featuring green roofs and energy-efficient systems that minimize the community's environmental footprint. Natural light plays a crucial role, with strategically placed windows to maximize sunlight exposure throughout the day. This consideration not only improves the interior ambiance but also supports energy efficiency.

### Unit Design and User Experience

The residential units consist of both single and double accommodations, designed to meet various communal living preferences while enhancing privacy where needed. Interior spaces prioritize simplicity and comfort, utilizing earth-tone palettes and textured surfaces to foster a warm atmosphere.

Consistent with the overarching design principles, the project respects traditional Portuguese architectural styles while integrating modern accessibility features. By fostering connections among residents and with the surrounding landscape, the development seeks to promote a holistic approach to the well-being of its elderly inhabitants.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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