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Charred Wooden Shingles Create Inviting Harmony in Modular Senior Living Spaces

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Charred Wooden Shingles Create Inviting Harmony in Modular Senior Living Spaces
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and large glass openings, the design fosters a strong connection between private living units and communal gardens, creating an accessible and engaging environment for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
The design includes communal gardens that residents can actively tend to, promoting engagement.
03
Large glass openings optimize natural light and enhance connectivity with outdoor spaces.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed to create a sustainable structural system.
05
The layout prioritizes accessibility, featuring wide pathways and mobility aids throughout.

### Overview

The community living project is located in a tranquil setting designed specifically for the elderly population. It aims to enhance social interaction, independence, and connectivity among residents, reflecting the philosophy that community cohesion is vital to improving quality of life for seniors. The architectural approach incorporates modular living units linked by outdoor pathways, emphasizing both navigation and social engagement while addressing the isolation often faced by older adults.

### Spatial Configuration and Social Integration

The design prioritizes a balance between private and communal spaces, fostering a harmonious lifestyle. The arrangement of modular units encourages interaction among residents, facilitating a supportive community. Key features include multi-functional social areas—such as dining rooms and relaxation zones—that serve as gathering points, while private units are crafted to provide comfort and a sense of belonging. Additionally, communal gardens are integrated within the layout, promoting therapeutic gardening practices and encouraging physical activity.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices in the project reflect a commitment to both functionality and aesthetic significance. The use of concrete ensures structural integrity, while wood finishes add warmth and a homelike atmosphere. Generous use of glass promotes transparency and visual connection to the outdoors, and metal elements provide shading and privacy. These materials not only serve practical purposes but also align with an overarching design ethos that emphasizes community, comfort, and sustainability. The inclusion of gardens and sustainable pathways underlines an environmentally conscious approach, integrating green philosophy into the living experience.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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