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Charred Wooden Shingles and Rendered Facade in a Community-Focused Elderly Care Facility

Authors:
Kat Pikhart, Brian Giandoni, David Duckworth, Oliver Ng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Rendered Facade in a Community-Focused Elderly Care Facility

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a rendered facade, the design prioritizes accessibility and community engagement within a residential facility for elderly care.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features a central lounge designed to foster social interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable structural integrity.
04
Includes a chapel that accommodates a diverse range of community events.
05
Designed with large windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing well-being.
The architectural project titled "VISTA" is a residential facility designed for elderly care located in Pamira, Portugal. This building accommodates up to 60 residents in 40 bedrooms, offering a blend of private and communal spaces that cater to the diverse needs of its inhabitants. The design emphasizes accessibility and social interaction, integrating the building into its natural surroundings while promoting a sense of community.

The architectural approach adopted in VISTA prioritizes function and user experience. The layout strategically positions essential areas, including a chapel, therapy rooms, and community spaces, to enhance accessibility. The building features a central lounge designed for social gatherings, promoting engagements among residents and visitors. Each bedroom is equipped with ensuite facilities and private balconies, ensuring residents' comfort and privacy. The careful planning of these communal and private spaces reflects a balance between individual needs and the importance of social connectivity.

Emphasis on Integration of Nature
One of the unique aspects of VISTA is its integration with the natural landscape. Large windows and open outdoor spaces are designed to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding valley, allowing residents to connect with nature. This design choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the mental well-being of the residents. The project design includes sustainable practices, utilizing materials such as render, tile, and steel railings that resonate with local architecture while focusing on energy efficiency through the Passivhaus construction method.

Community-Centric Design Features
VISTA's design is distinctive in its commitment to community engagement. Public spaces, such as the café and activity rooms, invite local residents to participate in various activities, bridging the gap between the facility and the broader community. These elements foster an environment of inclusion, encouraging social interaction and reducing the isolation often experienced in traditional elderly care settings. The architectural plans and sections illustrate how these spaces are thoughtfully arranged to promote accessibility and functionality, ensuring that all areas are navigable for residents.

For a more comprehensive understanding of this project, including its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of VISTA.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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