Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Rock Wool Insulation in a Hillside Retirement Community

Author:
Kemel Tavares
Charred Wooden Shingles and Rock Wool Insulation in a Hillside Retirement Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and rock wool insulation, the retirement community is thoughtfully integrated into the hillside, providing residents with a comfortable and sustainable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for efficient water management.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and an aesthetic connection to the landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while reducing construction time.
04
Open terraces promote outdoor accessibility and engagement with the surrounding environment.
05
Rock wool insulation improves energy efficiency and acoustic comfort for residents.
The Hillside Views retirement home project represents a thoughtful implementation of architecture designed specifically for the elderly, situated in an attractive, serene location. This architectural endeavor emphasizes comfort, accessibility, and social interaction, reflecting an understanding of the needs and lifestyles of its residents. Aimed at providing a supportive living environment, the building seeks to foster a sense of community among its occupants while promoting connection to the surrounding landscape.

The design functionally integrates private quarters and communal spaces, ensuring that residents have ample opportunities for social engagement while still having access to personal privacy. The layout facilitates straightforward navigation, with all essential amenities located within a short walking distance. This consideration of mobility is crucial for elderly residents, as it promotes independence while minimizing physical strain. The project successfully balances private and communal areas—individual rooms are thoughtfully arranged with outdoor terraces, offering residents the chance to enjoy fresh air and natural light.

In terms of materials, the Hillside Views project utilizes a well-considered palette that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Concrete forms the backbone of the building’s structure, providing longevity and stability. Steel framing supplements this with strong support, allowing for expansive spaces free of excessive columns. Wood, used for cladding, contributes warmth and a natural aesthetic that blends nicely with the hillside environment. Expansive glass elements are incorporated throughout the structure, ensuring that residents are connected to their surroundings while benefitting from natural illumination. The choice of ceramic tiles in common areas and bathrooms not only enhances usability but also eases maintenance, an important factor for a retirement facility. Additionally, rock wool insulation is employed to improve energy efficiency while ensuring comfort within the living spaces.

Environmental responsibility is a core component of the design. Hillside Views incorporates innovative strategies for sustainability, including a rainwater collection system that addresses water management effectively. This feature not only conserves water but also allows for the maintenance of landscaped areas surrounding the building. The roof features solar panels, harnessing renewable energy for common areas, which further enhances the project’s ecological credentials. These design decisions reflect a commitment to minimizing the building’s environmental footprint and establishing a progressive model for future architectural projects in elder living.

The architectural design employs unique approaches to achieve functional spaces that enhance daily living for residents. By strategically positioning communal areas near entrances and gardens, the design encourages interaction among the residents, fostering a sense of belonging. The abundant use of glass and open spaces provides unobstructed views that allow residents to engage visually with their environment. Moreover, the layout is adaptable, allowing for modifications based on changing needs over time. This flexibility is essential in promoting longevity for both the building and its occupants, accommodating shifts in health or lifestyle.

The architectural language of Hillside Views is characterized by a flat roof that offers expanded outdoor terrace space and contributes to a clean, modern aesthetic. The building integrates seamlessly with the hillside, using the natural topography to enhance its visual appeal while providing stunning views for residents. Careful attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the choice of materials to the thoughtful configuration of spaces.

For those interested in learning more about this project and its architectural nuances, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide further insights into the creative process and the underlying architectural ideas that shaped the Hillside Views retirement home. This project not only offers a practical solution to elder living but also reflects a broader commitment to design excellence and community integration. The design demonstrates how architecture can effectively respond to the unique needs of its inhabitants while remaining elegantly aligned with its natural surroundings.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy