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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Community-Centered Elderly Facility

Author:
Naz Amer
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Community-Centered Elderly Facility
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a harmonious blend of natural materials and light, catering to the social and personal needs of its residents in a community-focused elderly facility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and spatial flow.
04
Includes wide corridors to facilitate easy movement for residents with mobility challenges.
05
Design prioritizes communal spaces to foster social interaction among residents.

## Overview
The Elderly Home in Portugal is designed to serve the increasing needs of the elderly population, prioritizing independence and community engagement. The facility aims to create a supportive environment that respects local cultural values, emphasizing the importance of social interaction among residents. The project is situated in a context that blends contemporary architecture with traditional design elements, ensuring relevance to its surroundings.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The layout of the facility is thoughtfully organized to encourage movement and interaction. Wide corridors and communal areas promote social engagement, fostering connections among residents. The design incorporates accessibility features, such as non-slip flooring and sufficient lighting, enhancing safety for all individuals, including those with mobility challenges. Specific room configurations, including twin and single accommodations, are designed to ensure privacy while facilitating family visits, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection
The materials chosen for the project reflect both functional and aesthetic objectives. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while expansive glass facades maximize natural light, creating a sense of openness. The use of vibrant cladding materials not only adds visual interest but also resonates with local architectural styles, reinforcing a sense of belonging among residents. These elements collectively contribute to the establishment of a pleasant and inviting atmosphere throughout the facility.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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