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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Form a Harmonious Elderly Living Environment

Author:
Vid Fugina
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Form a Harmonious Elderly Living Environment

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, the design creates a harmonious living environment that fosters community and well-being for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with locally sourced stone to integrate with the historical context of Batalha.
02
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Large, strategically positioned windows maximize natural light and views of surrounding landscapes.
04
Flexible community spaces can adapt to various activities, promoting resident engagement.
05
Landscaped therapeutic gardens are designed to offer a calming, restorative environment for residents.
The Batalha Monastery Elderly Home is an architectural project located in Batalha, Portugal, designed to serve as a residential facility for the elderly. This structure carefully integrates modern residential needs with the rich historical context of its surroundings. The project emphasizes comfort, accessibility, and community interaction, aiming to create a dignified living environment that resonates with the local heritage.

One of the primary functions of the Batalha Monastery Elderly Home is to provide a supportive and welcoming space for elderly residents, featuring nursing facilities, private rooms, and communal areas. The layout is designed to maximize accessibility and promote social engagement among residents. Important parts of the design include spacious common areas that serve multiple functions, private balconies for personal outdoor space, and landscaped gardens that enhance the living experience through nature interaction.

Materiality plays a key role in this project. The exterior is clad in locally sourced stone, connecting the design to the regional architectural vernacular. Wood is utilized for interior detailing, providing warmth, while copper finishes are applied to specific architectural elements for durability and elegance. Large windows are strategically placed to optimize natural light, ensuring that living spaces feel open and inviting.

Unique design approaches within this project include the flexibility of spaces, which allows common areas to adapt based on the residents' needs. This is particularly relevant in accommodating various activities, such as dining or social gatherings. Additionally, the integration of landscaping not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also plays a vital role in promoting resident well-being.

Sustainability is another focus of the Batalha Monastery Elderly Home. The design considers energy efficiency through thoughtful orientation and potential incorporation of renewable energy sources like solar panels. This reflects a commitment to environmentally responsible architecture while maintaining a harmonious balance with the historical context of Batalha.

In summary, the Batalha Monastery Elderly Home exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architectural design, addressing the needs of elderly residents while respecting and reflecting the cultural and historical significance of its location. For more insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation available.
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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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