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Charred Wooden Screen Facades and Communal Courtyards in Elderly Living Spaces

Authors:
Madeline Engen, Carla Engen
Charred Wooden Screen Facades and Communal Courtyards in Elderly Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden screen facades and communal courtyards create a unique living environment for elderly residents, prioritizing both privacy and social connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden screens enhance privacy while adding an aesthetic element to communal areas.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both structural stability and insulation in the design.
03
A bent A-frame structure maximizes natural light and ventilation within each resident unit.
04
Communal courtyards integrate landscaped gardens, promoting outdoor activities for residents.
05
Dedicated support facilities within the design ensure immediate access to assistance when needed.
The Braided Homes project presents an innovative architectural approach tailored to accommodate the needs of elderly residents in Portugal. Its design emphasizes a blend of personal living spaces and communal areas, fostering a sense of community while ensuring individual autonomy. The architectural framework consists of interconnected residential units that function as independent homes, integrated within a network that promotes social interaction among residents.

The project features a clear layout, where each resident house encompasses private bedrooms, dining areas, and lounge spaces. These units are strategically positioned to create an environment that respects privacy while encouraging neighborly engagement. Adjacent to these houses, communal facilities such as a welcome center and multifunctional activity rooms facilitate social gatherings and support activities, enhancing overall quality of life for residents.

Unique Aspects of Design Approach

What distinguishes the Braided Homes project from typical elderly living developments is its integration of communal and private domains through architectural design. The concept of "braiding" personal spaces with communal facilities emphasizes improving interactions among residents without compromising their independence. Natural light and ventilation are prioritized in the design, enhancing comfort and well-being.

The choice of materials further supports the project’s objectives, utilizing local stone cladding and wooden details to create a warm and approachable aesthetic. The use of cream plaster for the exterior finish provides a cohesive appearance, while galvanized steel roofing ensures durability and effective rainwater management.

Emphasis on Sustainability and Accessibility

The Braided Homes project aligns with contemporary priorities in architecture, such as sustainability and accessibility. The structure's design incorporates energy-efficient elements and natural ventilation strategies, thereby reducing its ecological footprint. Moreover, accessible pathways and outdoor spaces promote safe mobility for residents.

Landscaped gardens and outdoor courtyards are integral components that offer opportunities for gardening and relaxation, reinforcing the connection between residents and their outdoor environment. This carefully considered integration fosters a healthy lifestyle, enhancing the everyday experience of the residents.

Prospective readers are encouraged to explore the project details further by reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural elements that outline the design philosophy and functionality of Braided Homes. This project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to elder housing, highlighting the importance of community-oriented design in contemporary architecture.
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
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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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