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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Creating Seamless Integration with Nature in Elderly Living Spaces

Authors:
Hassan Bacha, Antoine Saliba, Arta Nazari, Nineesh Kunnathudi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Creating Seamless Integration with Nature in Elderly Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Emphasizing environmental sensitivity through charred wooden shingles and a lush green roof, this elderly residence seamlessly merges with its natural surroundings, fostering community engagement and comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates a bent A-frame design that maximizes structural efficiency while enhancing spatial dynamics.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide not only a visually appealing exterior but also improve durability and weather resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout, promoting sustainability and contributing to a warm interior aesthetic.
04
A green roof system fosters biodiversity and offers residents a unique, interactive natural environment.
05
Passive solar design strategies effectively optimize energy efficiency and climate comfort for the elderly community.
The architectural project titled "Serenity - Home of Wisdom" embodies a thoughtful approach to the design of living spaces for the elderly, with a primary focus on enhancing their well-being through architecture. This project represents not just a building but a comprehensive environment where residents can feel secure, engaged, and connected to nature and each other. It serves as a dedicated space for elderly individuals, combining residential comfort with communal interaction, ensuring the provision of essential services and amenities.

At the heart of the design is an L-shaped layout that optimally responds to site conditions, prioritizing sun exposure and facilitating natural light throughout the day. This orientation is not merely functional; it inherently supports the mood and health of the residents by promoting connectivity to the outdoors. The careful consideration of sightlines and access allows for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, encouraging a seamless interaction between architectural spaces and nature.

The project incorporates a variety of essential parts, each playing a vital role in promoting a supportive living environment. Common areas are purposefully located within the design to foster social engagement, featuring spaces for activities, gatherings, and relaxation. Individual living units are designed with privacy in mind, yet they also include large windows to ensure that each resident enjoys an unobstructed view and ample natural light, thus enhancing their quality of life. The use of open corridors facilitates movement throughout the building, allowing for easy interaction among residents, visitors, and staff.

Materiality is a crucial aspect of the architectural design, with a careful selection that supports both aesthetics and functionality. Concrete forms the structural backbone of the building, providing durability and a modern feel. Warm wood accents in the façades and interiors create a homely atmosphere, making the environment feel inviting. The extensive use of glass not only allows for abundant daylight but also connects residents to the surrounding environment, reducing any sense of isolation. Steel elements lend structural integrity while contributing to a contemporary design narrative.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. A significant emphasis is placed on sustainability, as the architecture integrates climate-responsive features that adapt to environmental conditions. Elements such as passive solar strategies and natural ventilation promote energy efficiency, ensuring that the building not only serves its inhabitants but also minimizes its ecological footprint. The incorporation of a green roof system serves multiple purposes, enhancing biodiversity while providing thermal insulation and recreational space for residents. Additionally, the installation of adjustable louvers enables users to control sunlight and privacy, enhancing comfort in private and communal spaces.

By prioritizing the integration of natural landscapes, the "Serenity - Home of Wisdom" creates an environment that goes beyond conventional elderly housing. This architectural design addresses the psychological and emotional needs of residents while allowing for a fulfilling lifestyle that encourages connections with nature and shared experiences. The project's focus on enhancing social engagement through thoughtful spatial organization, natural light, and the strategic use of materials demonstrates a commitment to fostering a nurturing community environment.

Readers interested in exploring the finer details of this project can delve into architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain a comprehensive understanding of the innovative ideas and design philosophies that underpin “Serenity - Home of Wisdom.” Engaging with these elements will provide deeper insights into how architecture can profoundly enhance the living experiences of the elderly.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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