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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 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
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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
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