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Charred Wooden Shingles and Community Gardens in Silesian Senior Living Design

Charred Wooden Shingles and Community Gardens in Silesian Senior Living Design
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and integrated community gardens, the design fosters sustainable living for seniors in Silesia, promoting well-being and social interaction within a thoughtfully crafted environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates agricultural spaces for resident gardening participation.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Designed with accessibility in mind for all residents.
05
Includes communal areas that promote intergenerational interactions.

## Overview

Located in Katowice, Silesia, Poland, "Symbiosis" is an architectural design focused on enhancing the quality of life for seniors by integrating built and natural environments. The project encompasses various functions, including residential accommodations, agricultural spaces, and communal areas, aiming to foster both social interaction and ecological responsibility within a cohesive framework.

## Spatial Organization and Functional Layout

The design features a well-defined site plan organized into distinct zones that facilitate diverse activities. The main building serves as the central hub, containing living quarters while being appreciatively integrated into the overall landscape. Key areas include common and medical zones that support social engagement and health services, as well as private accommodation sections designed for comfort and accessibility. Auxiliary spaces such as laundry and storage enhance operational efficiency.

Outdoor areas complement the internal environment, with garden beds, recreational spaces, and dedicated agricultural zones that promote interaction with nature. The inclusion of community-oriented elements, such as market areas and therapeutic gardens, supports the mental and physical well-being of residents by encouraging active participation in communal life.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices reflect a commitment to durability and environmental sustainability. Brick is primarily used for the main structure, lending structural integrity and harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. Stone pathways connect various zones, while large glass openings maximize natural light and visual connections to outdoor environments. Structural steel elements contribute to a contemporary aesthetic while ensuring safety.

Sustainable practices are embedded into the design through the integration of local vegetation and rainwater management strategies, reinforcing the project’s ecological objectives and promoting a harmonious relationship with the surrounding ecosystem.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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