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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Facades in a Senior Living Community Design

Authors:
Mihyun Kim, Jung yoon Lee, Hyo seop Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Facades in a Senior Living Community Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a harmonious blend with its surroundings while providing a supportive living environment for seniors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Contoured building design follows the natural topography, minimizing grading and preserving existing landscapes.
02
Extensive use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
03
Integrated communal gardens promote biodiversity and encourage resident interaction.
04
Large, strategically placed windows maximize natural light and views of the surrounding environment.
05
Accessible pathways and shared spaces are designed specifically to foster community and support mobility.
The "Contour Village" is an architectural project designed as a senior living community, situated in a region of undulating terrain and rich vegetation. The primary aim of this project is to enhance the quality of life for its elderly residents by creating a supportive and engaging environment. This design integrates residential units with communal spaces, encouraging social interaction while minimizing the impacts of isolation often faced by seniors.

The project is characterized by its multi-layered structure that aligns with the contoured landscape. The design utilizes horizontal connections between different volumes, allowing for ease of movement and accessibility. Each unit features spacious interiors, complemented by large windows that facilitate natural light while connecting occupants visually to the outdoor landscape.

Use of Local Materials and Environment Integration

This project employs a variety of materials, including concrete, glass, wood, and metal grille systems. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, ensuring durability and stability. Glass is utilized extensively throughout the façade, creating a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces while providing a plethora of natural light. Wood adds warmth to the interior spaces, promoting a homely atmosphere. Metal grille systems are strategically placed on the exterior to provide shading and visual texture, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the buildings.

The integration with the surrounding environment is a fundamental aspect of the design. Landscaped terraces and gardens are interspersed within the project, enabling residents to engage with nature directly. These outdoor spaces serve both social and therapeutic purposes, allowing residents to cultivate gardens or gather for social activities.

Unique Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself through a focus on accessibility and communal living. Features such as ramps, wide corridors, and strategically placed communal spaces ensure that all residents, irrespective of mobility challenges, can navigate the environment comfortably. The design includes shared areas such as dining rooms and activity spaces that promote interaction among residents, addressing the social needs often overlooked in typical senior living facilities.

The circulation pattern within the complex is carefully considered, allowing for intuitive navigation. Connections between different sections of the complex are designed to foster spontaneous social encounters while also providing privacy where needed.

Community Engagement and Sustainability

"Contour Village" emphasizes community engagement, with spaces intended for group activities and socialization. Its sustainable approach includes the use of local materials that minimize transport emissions and create an authentic connection to the region's character. The layout respects the existing topography, utilizing natural slopes to reduce construction impact while enhancing the aesthetic experience of the residents.

For further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural designs of "Contour Village," readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Detailed visuals and comprehensive documentation will provide a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and their implications on senior living environments.
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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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