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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Intergenerational Living Spaces

Authors:
Keith James Evans, Amy Leanne F Blencoe, James Oliver Salman, Aston Richardson Oakes
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Intergenerational Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Blending the tactile warmth of cross-laminated timber panels with the rustic appeal of charred wooden shingles, this senior housing initiative in Winchester fosters community interactions and promotes connection among diverse generations.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively, promoting sustainability through renewable materials.
03
A central communal hub fosters interaction, supporting an integrated lifestyle for residents of all ages.
04
Gardens are integrated into the design, creating vibrant outdoor spaces that encourage social engagement.
05
The layout prioritizes accessibility, ensuring ease of movement and comfort for all residents, regardless of mobility.
Cromwell House represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor designed to address the increasing demand for senior housing in Winchester, England. This project seeks to create an inclusive environment that not only accommodates residents but also fosters connections between different age groups within the community. At its core, the design aims to reduce feelings of isolation often experienced by older adults, promoting a sense of belonging and interaction among residents and with the broader community.

Functionally, Cromwell House serves as a multifaceted living space tailored to the unique needs of seniors. It features a range of amenities that encourage socialization and provide opportunities for engagement. The architectural layout strategically incorporates communal areas, such as lounges, tea rooms, and event spaces, designed specifically to cultivate interactions among residents and visitors. These communal spaces are paired with vibrant gardens and outdoor areas that enhance residents' connection to nature and offer settings for gatherings and activities.

The project's design puts a strong emphasis on accessibility and adaptability. Individual housing units are thoughtfully arranged across multiple levels, designed to cater to a variety of living situations while ensuring ease of mobility for all residents. Key design features include flexible spaces that can accommodate a range of activities from fitness classes to community dinners. This flexibility is integral to creating a lively atmosphere where residents can pursue their interests and connect with others.

A significant part of the architectural strategy revolves around sustainable materials and practices. Cromwell House utilizes timber and glass throughout its structure, fostering a sense of warmth and connection to the environment while allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces. The use of advanced insulation materials not only contributes to energy efficiency but also enhances the overall comfort of the building, ensuring a pleasant living environment for all occupants.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its focus on intergenerational engagement. By designing spaces that invite interactions between seniors and younger community members—such as workshops, learning opportunities, and shared events—Cromwell House stands out as a model for modern senior living. This emphasis on creating a bridge between generations reflects a progressive understanding of community dynamics and the role of architecture in enhancing social connectivity.

The approach to landscaping at Cromwell House also significantly enhances its architectural impact. The thoughtfully designed gardens not only provide recreational spaces for residents but also serve as venues for community events, thus inviting neighbors and families to participate in a shared experience. This reinforces the project’s commitment to fostering strong community ties, breaking down barriers between residents and their surroundings.

Engagement with technology further complements the architectural design, with community apps being integrated to facilitate communication and the organization of activities. This ensures that seniors remain connected not only to their fellow residents but also to family and friends outside the facility.

Cromwell House exemplifies a careful integration of thoughtful design and community-oriented principles. By creating spaces that nurture interaction and connection, the project stands to redefine what modern senior housing can entail, shifting the paradigm from isolation to community involvement. Readers interested in gaining further insights into this architectural endeavor are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented, which offer a comprehensive view of the project’s vision and execution.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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