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Charred Wood Shingles Overlaying Concrete Forms in A Multi-Dimensional Wellness Facility

Authors:
Alia Amer, Ayman Emaira, Clara Bondi
Charred Wood Shingles Overlaying Concrete Forms in A Multi-Dimensional Wellness Facility

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a robust concrete structure, creating an engaging environment that promotes wellness and community interaction within a dedicated elderly care facility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a durable and environmentally sensitive exterior.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
03
A central courtyard serves as the primary communal space for residents to gather.
04
Elevated multi-level design maximizes views and integrates with the natural landscape.
05
User-friendly circulation paths ensure easy access throughout the facility for all residents.
The architectural design for the elderly care facility, titled "Solicitude," presents a comprehensive approach to creating supportive living environments for aging populations. The project emphasizes community engagement, wellness, and connectivity through its intricate layout and choice of materials. Purposefully designed to enhance the quality of life for residents, this facility aligns with contemporary needs for comfort, accessibility, and social inclusion among the elderly.

The layout consists of six distinct masses, each representing one of the six dimensions of wellness—emotional, occupational, physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual. This organization facilitates a seamless integration of spaces tailored to foster interaction among residents while also providing opportunities for privacy and personal reflection. Architectural elements such as a central courtyard serve as an organizational hub, promoting community gatherings and outdoor activities.

Material selection plays a vital role in achieving the project's intent. Key materials include concrete for structural stability, extensive use of glass to invite natural light and provide views of surrounding landscapes, and wood to introduce warmth throughout communal areas. This combination of materials enhances not only the aesthetics but also the functionality and comfort of the environment.

The unique design approach taken in "Solicitude" focuses on enhancing well-being through thoughtful spatial arrangements and accessibility measures. The facility features room variants to accommodate individual preferences, with both single and double options available. The carefully designed circulation paths are intended to facilitate ease of movement for residents, particularly those with mobility challenges. Furthermore, the elevation changes across the site enhance views and connect residents with the external landscape, an important aspect of promoting emotional well-being.

This project diverges from conventional elderly care facilities by integrating nature and ensuring interaction with the environment. The multi-mass design effectively separates various functions while promoting collaboration among residents. This thoughtful arrangement supports an active lifestyle, encouraging social interactions and engagement with supportive staff and fellow residents.

The architectural design of "Solicitude" successfully embodies a vision of inclusive living for the elderly, combining functionality with a deep commitment to wellness principles. For those interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of this project, a thorough review of the accompanying presentation is highly recommended. This will provide insights into the unique architectural ideas implemented to foster a nurturing community for elderly residents.
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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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