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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Facades Enhance Senior Living Through Nature Integration

Author:
Emma Chudoba
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Facades Enhance Senior Living Through Nature Integration

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and stone facades, this senior housing initiative prioritizes natural light and communal engagement, fostering a supportive environment for its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a community garden that encourages resident participation in horticulture.
02
Features extensive use of charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Designed with large glass facades for optimized natural light and view integration.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
05
Includes meditation spaces strategically placed within tranquil outdoor settings.

BalcoRetreat represents a progressive approach to senior housing, emphasizing the integration of architecture with the surrounding environment. The project is designed to provide a functional and supportive living space for seniors, focusing on health, wellness, and community interaction. This senior housing facility strategically utilizes its site to enhance residents’ quality of life, combining private living units with communal areas that encourage social engagement.

Architecture and Design Approach

BalcoRetreat is characterized by a careful selection of materials and design strategies that prioritize accessibility and sustainability. The use of stone walls serves as both thermal mass and aesthetic appeal, providing durability and a natural presence. Wooden shutters add warmth while offering privacy and light control. Large glass elements throughout the building create visual connections with the outdoor landscape, promoting a sense of openness and facilitating natural light access. The project also incorporates brick, a familiar and comforting material that strengthens the building’s tactile qualities.

Unique design features distinguish BalcoRetreat from conventional senior housing projects. The layout emphasizes outdoor connectivity, with each residential unit oriented to maximize views and natural light. The inclusion of a community garden encourages residents to participate in outdoor activities and fosters a sense of belonging. Additionally, the design incorporates meditation and communal areas specifically aimed at promoting social interaction and relaxation, reinforcing the importance of mental well-being.

Integration of Public and Private Spaces

BalcoRetreat successfully integrates diverse functions, allowing for both communal and private experiences within the architecture. Common areas such as libraries and dining spaces are strategically placed to encourage interaction among residents, while private residential units are designed to be adaptable for individual needs. A series of wrapped balconies provides semi-private outdoor spaces that facilitate socialization without compromising personal privacy.

The thoughtful organization of circulation paths within the project ensures easy navigation and accessibility for all residents. Wide corridors and open communal areas create a welcoming atmosphere that promotes interaction while maintaining a sense of personal space. These design decisions address the unique requirements of senior living, enhancing autonomy while fostering a community spirit.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and unique design concepts of BalcoRetreat, we encourage exploring additional project details. The architectural ideas presented in this project offer valuable lessons in how thoughtful design can significantly enhance the living experience for seniors, balancing privacy with community engagement.

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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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