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Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Glass in a Nature-Integrated Senior Living Environment

Authors:
Martin Borquez, Alexis Alvarado, Felipe Quispe
Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Glass in a Nature-Integrated Senior Living Environment

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and translucent glass, the retirement home seamlessly merges into the forested landscape, offering a collaborative environment designed to enhance the well-being and interaction of elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Maximizes natural light through expansive translucent glass elements.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Features communal spaces specifically designed for active engagement and collaboration.
05
Adaptively blends into the forest landscape, preserving local biodiversity and ecology.
The "Retirement ‘Forest’ Home" project represents a contemporary approach to senior living, merging architectural design with ecological awareness in a forested setting in Chile. This architecture prioritizes the well-being of elderly residents by fostering a strong connection with nature and encouraging community interaction. The functional layout is designed to accommodate both individual and communal activities, enriching the living experience for seniors who often face isolation.

The project is centered on designing spaces that are adaptable for various uses, including lounges, workshops, and areas for relaxation. These multiple functions support a vibrant community atmosphere, allowing residents to engage in hobbies, socialize, and participate in organized activities.

Unique Design Approaches

The design approach is characterized by its integration with the surrounding environment. The layout strategically employs pathways that allow for easy navigation while minimizing disruption to the natural landscape. Features such as living rooms equipped for community gatherings and individual workspaces demonstrate a thoughtful understanding of the diverse needs of older adults.

The project also incorporates elements that reflect a commitment to sustainability. The use of locally sourced materials like wood and concrete not only ensures structural integrity but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Translucent glass is utilized to enhance natural light within the spaces and to provide unobstructed views of the forest, reinforcing the bond between the inside and outside environments.

Architectural Details and Functionality

Each component of the architectural design serves a clear purpose. Communal areas are designed to promote social interaction, while individual spaces offer privacy and the opportunity for personal reflection. The arrangement of these spaces responds to the natural topography, optimizing accessibility while encouraging exploration of the landscape.

Educational workshops are integrated into the design, providing residents with opportunities to engage with aspects of biodiversity and environmental sustainability. This dual focus on community and ecology is a distinctive aspect of the project, setting it apart from typical retirement homes. The architectural sections and plans further illustrate how these spaces interconnect to support a cohesive living environment.

Exploring the project presentation will provide further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and innovative details that define this unique approach to senior housing. This exploration can deepen understanding of the architectural ideas that drive the project forward, showcasing the effective merging of functionality and ecological sensitivity in residential architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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