Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Wellness in Senior Housing

Author:
Wolfgang Doering
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Wellness in Senior Housing

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design fosters a seamless integration of communal and private spaces to enhance wellness within senior housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural stability and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes extensive landscaping directly accessible from private living units.
05
Emphasizes barrier-free accessibility throughout all communal and private spaces.
The "Beyond Isolation: Senior Housing" project is designed to address the housing needs of elderly residents within a community-oriented framework. Located in Bad Godesberg, Germany, the project integrates functionality and social interaction, aiming to combat loneliness in senior living through thoughtful architectural design. The focus is on creating an environment that fosters connection, accessibility, and overall well-being.

This architectural project comprises a series of interconnected living spaces and communal areas. The design encourages residents to engage with both their immediate surroundings and the broader community. The architectural approach highlights clear separations between private spaces and communal areas, essential for cultivating a balanced living experience. Ground-floor amenities, including a community room, healthcare facilities, and easy access points, are strategically positioned to support the daily activities of residents. Upper levels house individual apartments flooded with natural light, promoting comfort and ease of mobility.

Integration of Nature and Accessibility

One of the distinguishing features of this project is its seamless integration of natural elements through landscaping and outdoor communal areas. Green spaces are designed to encourage outdoor activities and social gatherings, thus enhancing the quality of life for residents. The site's layout allows for direct access from living units to these green areas, reinforcing the connection between nature and community, which is crucial for the emotional and psychological well-being of the elderly.

The architectural design also places a strong emphasis on accessibility. Elimination of physical barriers, such as steps or complex navigation systems, maximizes ease of movement through the building. This attention to detail ensures that all residents, regardless of mobility challenges, can navigate their environment comfortably and safely.

Sustainable Material Selection

The material palette for the project emphasizes sustainability and durability. The chosen materials include timber for structural components, concrete for foundational elements, and glass for façade applications. This combination not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the building but also aligns with ecological standards of modern architectural design. The use of timber offers warmth, while concrete provides strength and longevity. The extensive use of glass facilitates transparency and visual connections to the surrounding landscape, creating a sense of openness.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and overall architectural designs is encouraged. These elements provide deeper insights into the carefully considered architectural ideas that contribute to the overall effectiveness and functionality of "Beyond Isolation: Senior Housing." By examining these details, readers can gain a greater understanding of the project's role in reshaping senior living within a community context.
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 16,979 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