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Charred Wooden Shingles and Tiered Structures for Sustainable Elderly Living

Author:
Emma Clara Helena Karlsson Bruhn
Charred Wooden Shingles and Tiered Structures for Sustainable Elderly Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a tiered structure, the design fosters community engagement and sustainability while catering specifically to the needs of elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural efficiency and reduce waste.
03
Features a tiered layout that maximizes both views and accessibility for residents.
04
Integrates a central garden as a communal space promoting social interaction.
05
Employs passive solar design principles to optimize energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

The architectural design project titled "Life in Between" offers a contemporary framework for elderly living, emphasizing sustainability, social interaction, and connectivity with the surrounding landscape. Located on a hillside, this project intelligently addresses the unique requirements of elderly residents while maintaining aesthetic coherence with its environment.

The project comprises various living units organized in a tiered configuration, maximizing views and minimizing ground disruption. Communal spaces are vital, facilitating gatherings and promoting a sense of community. The thoughtful design incorporates passive solar strategies and renewable energy systems, promoting environmental sustainability alongside the well-being of the residents.

Design Integration with Nature

"Life in Between" distinguishes itself through its integration of natural elements into the architectural fabric. By utilizing a tiered approach, the project enhances accessibility while offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. The central garden is a focal point for social interaction, providing outdoor spaces for relaxation and engagement. The design utilizes paths and connectivity to encourage residents to explore these spaces, fostering a sense of community.

The materiality of the building further contributes to its unique identity. A mix of concrete, natural stone, and wood provides both structural stability and warmth, while transparent and translucent elements in the facade allow natural light to penetrate while ensuring privacy. This combination not only enhances visual comfort but also establishes a dialogue with the natural environment.

Functionality and Flexibility in Design

The design of "Life in Between" prioritizes functionality through the strategic layout of indoor and outdoor spaces. The ground floor serves as a multifaceted community hub, accommodating various functions such as dining, library, and activity areas. This design approach ensures that residents can engage in social activities while maintaining access to necessary services within close proximity.

Moreover, the architectural design incorporates a variety of living unit configurations, allowing for flexibility depending on individual resident needs. The spaces are adaptable, catering to different lifestyle requirements while promoting independence and dignity among the elderly.

This project exemplifies a thoughtful response to the challenges of elderly living through its architectural strategies, communal focus, and integration with nature. For those interested in exploring the finer details of architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, a comprehensive presentation of the project is available for review. Consider examining the architectural elements that contribute to its overall functionality and aesthetic coherence.

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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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