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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Concrete Define a Community-Centric Residence for the Elderly

Author:
Simão Jorge
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Concrete Define a Community-Centric Residence for the Elderly

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and recycled concrete, the design fosters a sustainable living environment that encourages community interaction for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates recycled concrete to reduce environmental impact during construction.
03
Features modular design to facilitate flexible living arrangements for residents.
04
Emphasizes large windows to optimize natural light and connect with nature.
05
Includes landscaped communal gardens designed for intergenerational interaction.

The project "Oldly Brightened" is an innovative architectural design focused on redefining retirement living in Gdańsk, Poland. It serves as a retirement home that integrates community interaction and nature, addressing the needs of an aging population while prioritizing social well-being and environmental sustainability.

This architectural project represents a shift in the way retirement homes are conceptualized. Instead of offering isolated environments, it creates a vibrant community that encourages social connections among residents. The design encompasses flexibility and accessibility, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging engagement through various communal spaces.

Modular Design and Community Interaction

One distinguishing aspect of "Oldly Brightened" is its modular design that allows for flexible living arrangements. The assembly of interconnected units offers a variety of living experiences, enhancing social interaction among residents. This layout prioritizes shared spaces that promote community engagement, such as gardens and gathering areas specifically designed for activities and events.

The architectural approach emphasizes a human-scale environment. With only two stories, the building maintains an approachable presence, making it easy for residents to navigate and access amenities. This scale also encourages interaction with both peers and the natural landscape that envelops the project.

Sustainability and Material Use

Sustainability is a core principle of the project, reflected in its material selection and design strategies. The use of recycled concrete as a primary structural element minimizes environmental impact and supports eco-friendly construction practices. Incorporating recycled plastic tiles for exterior surfaces enhances durability while adhering to sustainability goals. Additionally, natural stone flooring contributes to a sensory-rich environment, and biomass materials are used for insulation, ensuring energy efficiency.

Attention to natural light and ventilation is evident throughout the project. Large windows optimize daylighting, connecting interior spaces with the outdoor environment and enhancing the overall living experience for residents. This design decision also promotes mental well-being by providing views of landscaped gardens, further integrating nature into daily life.

"Oldly Brightened" not only meets the functional needs of its residents but also sets a precedent for future architectural designs in similar contexts. This project illustrates how innovative architectural ideas can create supportive living environments for the elderly. To explore more about this project, including architectural plans, sections, and further design details, readers are encouraged to review the project presentation.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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MICROHOME
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