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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vast Natural Light in a Community-Oriented Senior Residence

Author:
Gautam Bhatia
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vast Natural Light in a Community-Oriented Senior Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing, the architecture creates a harmonious blend of private living and communal spaces designed to enhance the quality of life for its senior residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building features inverted room layouts that enhance social interaction while maintaining privacy.
02
Charred wooden shingles are integrated into the façade to provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for sustainable construction and superior thermal insulation.
04
A central communal core serves as the heart of the design, promoting community gatherings and activities.
05
Expansive glazing offers extensive natural light while creating a seamless connection between interior spaces and the surrounding landscape.

The Elderly Home project located in Portugal represents a thoughtful advancement in the realm of architecture focused on elder care. This facility embodies a keen understanding of the complexities associated with aging, delivering a space that addresses both the functional needs and psychological well-being of its residents. The design aims to redefine the traditional notions of elderly living environments by fostering community, encouraging social interaction, and integrating private living spaces with communal areas.

At its core, the Elderly Home is constructed around a central communal core. This unique approach creates an environment conducive to social engagement while still respecting individual privacy. The layout can be likened to a cellular village where private units, described as "inverted rooms," loop around communal areas designed for shared activities and interactions. This architectural organization allows residents to maintain their independence while creating opportunities for companionship, significantly enhancing their overall quality of life.

The project employs a diverse palette of materials that not only ensure durability but also create an inviting atmosphere. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, offering stability and longevity, while expansive glass windows flood the interior with natural light and maintain a visual connection to the surrounding landscape. Wood features prominently in various elements, contributing warmth and a sense of home within the facility. The thoughtful combination of steel and aluminum for structural support further enhances functionality while maintaining a clean, modern aesthetic. Various colors applied to the exterior draw attention to distinct areas within the building and contribute to an uplifting ambiance.

One of the most notable aspects of the Elderly Home is its innovative use of space and careful zoning. By strategically separating active communal zones from private living spaces, the architectural design encourages a dynamic interaction among residents while ensuring moments of tranquility. The facility also embraces the natural landscape, effectively integrating green spaces into the overall design. This connection to nature is vital for mental health, providing residents with serene environments that promote a sense of well-being.

A key strength of this project is its commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. The architectural design incorporates features that allow residents of all mobility levels to navigate the space comfortably. This focus not only underlines the intention behind the project but also highlights a progressive perspective on elder care that prioritizes the dignity and independence of its residents.

The Elderly Home project stands out due to its human-scale design that mitigates the institutional feel often associated with elder care facilities. By embracing community-focused concepts, it reimagines the living experience for seniors, creating a vibrant hub rather than a mere residence. The intentional overlapping of private and communal areas instigates unexpected interactions, enriching the daily lives of those who call this place home.

This project encompasses several architectural ideas and strategies that contribute to its overall success. The deep understanding of its inhabitants' needs is evident in every detail, from the layout to the choice of materials and the integration of outdoor spaces. The holistic approach taken in this design showcases the evolving narrative of architecture within the context of aged care.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural elements of this project, exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs will provide further insights. Engaging with the various aspects of this project can yield a comprehensive understanding of how thoughtful design can create meaningful, supportive environments for the elderly.

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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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