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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Enhancing Community Living for the Elderly

Authors:
Alia Amer, Ayman Emaira, Clara Bondi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Enhancing Community Living for the Elderly

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this architectural approach fosters a welcoming community environment for elderly residents while prioritizing wellness and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability while offering a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout to promote sustainability and thermal efficiency.
03
A central panoramic gathering space encourages community interaction and social engagement among residents.
04
The bent A-frame structure optimizes natural light and enhances the connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Adaptable room configurations cater to varying social needs and personal preferences of the elderly residents.
The architectural project presented is a thoughtfully designed space intended specifically to support the needs of the elderly community. This design not only serves as a residence but also as a comprehensive living environment that promotes wellness and connectivity among its residents. At its core, the project embodies the principle of care, reflecting the intrinsic value of nurturing those who have spent their lives giving care to others.

The primary function of this architectural design revolves around enhancing the quality of life for elderly individuals. It is structured to facilitate social interaction, independence, and support while incorporating the essential elements of daily living. The layout is meticulously organized, consisting of multiple interconnected masses that create a feeling of community while ensuring privacy and comfort for residents. Each section of the building serves a specific purpose, including accommodations, communal gathering areas, recreational facilities, and services designed to address the varying needs of the elderly.

Key components of the project include a central corridor that acts as the backbone of the design, connecting all functional areas. This pathway encourages easy navigation and promotes social engagement among the residents. The design features an expansive gathering space which serves as a focal point for community activities, enabling residents to interact with one another, participate in group exercises, or simply enjoy a peaceful moment together.

A unique aspect of the project is the incorporation of adaptable room configurations. By offering both single and double-occupancy options, the design accommodates different lifestyle preferences and supports the residents' need for privacy as well as social connection. This flexibility reflects a nuanced understanding of the dynamics of elder living, allowing individuals to choose a living arrangement that best suits their needs.

In terms of building materials, the project seems to emphasize durability and a welcoming aesthetic. Elements such as glass are utilized to create moments of transparency, allowing natural light to stream into living spaces, which can contribute positively to the emotional well-being of residents. Additionally, the potential use of wood in certain areas enhances the warmth of the interior, creating a home-like atmosphere that fosters comfort.

The three-tier architecture skillfully maximizes the use of site topography, providing diverse vantage points for residents. This arrangement not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the building but also harmonizes the facility with its surroundings, promoting an outdoor lifestyle that encourages physical activity. Careful consideration is given to landscaping, likely favoring low-maintenance flora that can provide beauty without requiring excessive upkeep, thereby ensuring that the grounds remain accessible and enjoyable for residents.

What sets this architectural design apart is its holistic approach to the six dimensions of wellness: emotional, occupational, physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual. Each aspect is integrated into the overall framework of the project, making it a place where residents can thrive in a supportive environment tailored to their needs.

As one explores the various elements of this architectural project, it becomes clear that every design choice is intentional, aimed at creating a nurturing space for its occupants. The architectural plans indicate a seamless flow of spaces, while the architectural sections reveal how different areas of the building will function together to foster a sense of community. Furthermore, investigating the architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative solutions employed to enhance the living experience of the elderly.

For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this design, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and broader architectural ideas will illuminate the thoughtful processes behind this important project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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