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Charred Wooden Shingles and Tactile Navigation in a Community-Focused Living Space

Authors:
Kseniia Veselova, Tatiana Kargina
Charred Wooden Shingles and Tactile Navigation in a Community-Focused Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and providing intuitive tactile navigation, the design creates a welcoming environment dedicated to enhancing the living experience for visually impaired residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and provide a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for improved structural performance and thermal insulation.
03
A bent A-frame design facilitates natural light penetration while creating an inviting atmosphere.
04
Intuitive tactile navigation elements are integrated throughout to assist residents in orientation.
05
The central courtyard serves as a communal space, promoting interaction and community bonding.
The architectural project titled "Home for the Blind" is a thoughtfully designed living facility aimed at enhancing the quality of life for visually impaired individuals. This project represents a progressive approach in architectural practice, prioritizing comfort, accessibility, and safety while fostering a sense of community. The design seamlessly blends functionality with human-centric principles, creating an environment that supports both the independence and social interaction of its residents.

At its core, the Home for the Blind functions as a supportive living space, catering specifically to the needs of its inhabitants. The architectural design is grounded in extensive research on the experiences of visually impaired individuals, leading to features that facilitate intuitive navigation and a homely atmosphere. The layout showcases linear travel paths to reduce complexity, allowing residents to move freely and safely. The modular arrangement of living units encourages social engagement while maintaining privacy, ensuring a balance that is essential for fostering a sense of belonging.

The project incorporates a central courtyard that acts as a communal hub, promoting interaction among residents. This outdoor space is essential for providing opportunities for social activities and relaxation, contributing to the overall well-being of the inhabitants. The strategic placement of private rooms in relation to communal areas helps create an inviting atmosphere while preserving individual space.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project's architectural narrative. Concrete is employed for its structural reliability, while wood introduces warmth through various design elements. The use of large glass panels minimizes barriers between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors and enhance the visual experience for those with partial sight. Metal elements are integrated into the design primarily for functional purposes, adding durability and stability to key areas such as railings and fittings.

Unique design approaches have been taken in addressing the specific requirements of visually impaired occupants. The emphasis on tactile and auditory elements within the environment is particularly noteworthy. Key architectural components like furniture, entryways, and ramps are carefully designed for maximum contrast and visibility, ensuring that significant features stand out. The incorporation of fixation points further aids in spatial awareness for residents, allowing them to establish cognitive maps of their surroundings.

The interior layout is organized with wide corridors and doorways that provide ease of movement for all residents, particularly those using mobility aids. The design incorporates elements like built-in furniture and adaptable spaces to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring that residents can personalize their living environments. Furthermore, the vertical connectivity through elevators and staircases is designed with accessibility in mind, emphasizing the importance of ease in navigating between floors.

In terms of architectural ideas, the Home for the Blind represents a commitment to inclusivity and thoughtful design. By focusing on understanding the lived experiences of visually impaired individuals, the project exemplifies an empathetic approach to architecture. The modular layout, combined with sensory considerations, enables the building to serve as a model for future developments catering to individuals with disabilities.

As you engage with this project, consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. A closer examination of these details will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful strategies employed in creating this essential living community. The Home for the Blind stands as a testament to how architecture can serve a meaningful purpose while fostering inclusivity and support for all individuals.
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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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