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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create Tranquil Senior Living Environment

Author:
Joe Ingea
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create Tranquil Senior Living Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive internal gardens, the design fosters a serene environment tailored for enriching the lives of elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates extensive internal gardens that promote wellness and social interaction among residents.
03
Features expansive windows to maximize natural light and provide scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Includes a unique staircase tower that serves as a central visual landmark within the complex.
05
Designed with accessibility in mind, ensuring easy navigation for all residents throughout the building.
The project known as Casa de Serenidade is a well-conceived architectural design that aims to enhance the living experience of elderly residents within a community-focused environment. Reflecting a modern yet warm aesthetic, this residential complex integrates thoughtfully into its surroundings, symbolizing both comfort and functionality. The architecture of Casa de Serenidade caters specifically to the needs of its inhabitants, offering spaces that support social interaction, wellness, and a strong connection to nature.

At its core, Casa de Serenidade represents an evolution in the design of senior living facilities. It serves as a residential home that emphasizes not only care but also dignity, independence, and community. The architectural layout fosters an active lifestyle, while ensuring that all essential services and communal areas are easily accessible. Each aspect of the project is meticulously planned to ensure that residents experience a sense of belonging, security, and engagement.

The overall design of Casa de Serenidade entails multiple levels, allowing for an efficient use of space while maximizing the potential for natural light and views. On the ground floor, visitors and residents are greeted by a welcoming lobby that sets a positive tone for the entire complex. Surrounding this area are essential communal spaces, including a dining hall, library, and a chapel, which invite residents to gather for shared activities or moments of individual reflection.

Moving upwards, the housing accommodations are distributed across the first and second floors. These areas consist of thoughtfully designed single and double bedrooms that feature balconies. These outdoor spaces provide individual residents with personal retreats while ensuring access to fresh air and views of the landscaped gardens. Each room is intended to evoke a peaceful atmosphere, blending seamlessly with the architectural intent of fostering well-being and comfort.

The basement levels house additional residential spaces, ensuring that the living quarters remain consistent with the overall spirit of the project. Residents of these lower levels also benefit from internal gardens and accessible communal areas, reinforcing the architecture’s intention to immerse its inhabitants within a natural environment. Each of these features encourages opportunities for social connection and engagement with nature.

A significant aspect of Casa de Serenidade is the materiality of the building, where local stone and warm timber elements are used extensively. This choice not only achieves durability but also resonates with the location's cultural identity. By integrating glass elements throughout the design, the building allows natural light to flood the interiors, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere that contrasts with the often clinical feel found in traditional elder care facilities. The porcelain tiles chosen for flooring not only enhance aesthetic qualities but also provide ease of maintenance, an important consideration in elder residential design.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout Casa de Serenidade. The architects have prioritized integration of nature into the living experience, strategically placing gardens and communal outdoor spaces that encourage residents to engage with their environment. The presence of extensive greenery creates a tranquil setting and serves as a therapeutic element for residents. Additionally, the design includes a distinctive staircase tower, which acts as a visual and functional landmark within the project. This feature not only enhances the architectural composition but also inspires movement and exploration among residents.

The thoughtful balance between shared and private spaces in Casa de Serenidade positions it as a contemporary model for senior living facilities. By embracing architectural ideas that celebrate community while respecting personal privacy, the project aligns the principles of modern architecture with the fundamental needs of its residents. This harmonious blend of design, function, and community engagement signifies a progressive step in architectural design for elder care.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and designs of Casa de Serenidade, a thorough exploration of the project's presentation is encouraged. Understanding the detailed architectural ideas can provide invaluable insights into how thoughtful design enhances the quality of life for its residents.
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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
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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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