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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Shape A Harmonious Senior Community Amidst Nature

Authors:
Awar Meman, Taite McLoughlin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Shape A Harmonious Senior Community Amidst Nature

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and local stone, the architectural design invites residents to thrive in a thoughtfully integrated senior community that embraces nature while promoting social engagement and well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and efficient construction.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and views.
04
Integrates communal gardens that encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Designed with mobility pathways to ensure accessibility for all residents.
The Vilarejo Verde Senior Living Center is a thoughtfully designed architectural project that embodies a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through a meticulously crafted living environment. Located in a picturesque, hilly region, the project draws inspiration from the traditional layout of Portuguese hillside villages. This connection to local culture reinforces the project's intention to create a sense of belonging and community for elderly residents while integrating seamlessly with the natural landscape.

This senior living center represents a holistic approach to community-focused architecture, emphasizing both social interaction and personal privacy. The design includes various types of living accommodations tailored to the diverse needs of its residents, promoting a supportive and engaging environment. The architecture successfully merges functionality with aesthetic appeal, facilitating an active yet comfortable lifestyle for older adults.

Central to the design is a network of pathways and communal spaces that encourage movement and engagement. A prominent feature is a central promenade that connects the residential buildings. This promenade serves not only as a circulation route but also as a gathering space where residents can socialize and participate in community activities. By prioritizing accessibility, the architects have ensured that all residents, regardless of mobility constraints, can navigate the site with ease, highlighting an inclusive approach to senior living.

The design incorporates various materials, each selected for their functional properties and visual appeal. Local stone, used extensively throughout the project, anchors the structure to its geographical context, providing durability and a sense of permanence. Wood adds warmth and a tactile quality, creating a welcoming ambiance in both private and shared spaces. Large glass windows are strategically positioned to invite natural light and offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the living experience by fostering a connection with nature.

One of the unique aspects of the Vilarejo Verde project is its adaptability. The residential units are designed to accommodate single and double occupancy, allowing for flexibility based on the residents' changing needs. This adaptability is complemented by thoughtfully designed communal spaces, which include a cafeteria, library, and multipurpose areas. These spaces are essential to promoting social interaction and creating a vibrant community atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage with one another within a safe and supportive environment.

The design further sets itself apart through its integration with outdoor spaces. Gardens, courtyards, and recreational areas are deftly intertwined with the built environment, providing serene settings for relaxation and encouraging outdoor activities. This connection to green spaces is not only beneficial for residents' physical health but also nurtures their emotional well-being by fostering a calming atmosphere.

Another distinctive feature of the Vilarejo Verde project is its emphasis on sustainability. The architectural design includes strategies for passive solar energy utilization and efficient water management through landscaped areas. Such considerations are not merely practical but align with a growing recognition of the responsibility architects have to the environment.

In summary, the Vilarejo Verde Senior Living Center is an exemplary architectural project that prioritizes the needs of its residents while promoting community and connection to nature. Its integrated approach, which balances personal privacy with communal engagement, serves as a model for future developments in senior living. For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design details will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful concepts and innovative architectural ideas that define this project.
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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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