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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping Garden Terraces in A Thoughtfully Designed Senior Residence

Authors:
Fatemeh Kalantari, Peter Hirth
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping Garden Terraces in A Thoughtfully Designed Senior Residence

Project in-detail

Nestled within a vibrant landscape, charred wooden shingles and expansive garden terraces create an inviting atmosphere that redefines senior living by fostering community and connection among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence features charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and provide a unique aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural efficiency and sustainability, reducing overall carbon footprint.
03
Garden terraces are strategically integrated to encourage horticultural therapy and outdoor interaction among residents.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration while providing distinctive interior spaces.
05
Accessible design elements are prioritized throughout, ensuring ease of movement for residents with varying mobility needs.
The architectural project under discussion is a senior residence designed with a focus on fostering community, enhancing comfort, and ensuring accessibility for its inhabitants. This residential complex thoughtfully integrates various components to create a nurturing environment that promotes both social interaction and individual well-being. The project is situated in a picturesque landscape, providing residents with scenic views and a connection to nature that enriches their daily lives.

Functionally, the senior residence is designed to cater to the needs of elderly individuals, offering a range of living arrangements that include both single and twin accommodations. The layout is meticulously planned to support easy navigation while accommodating the diverse needs of its residents. Accessibility is a fundamental aspect of the design; hallways are wide, and common areas are strategically placed to eliminate barriers, ensuring all residents can move throughout the space independently.

A key feature of this architectural project is its communal areas, which are central to the overall function of the residence. The dining area, for instance, acts as a social hub where residents can gather for meals, fostering connections and conversations. Its large windows not only flood the space with natural light but also provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the dining experience. Similarly, the library and recreational spaces encourage intellectual engagement and social activities, allowing residents to participate in workshops, fitness classes, and various hobbies.

Unique design approaches in this project include the use of natural materials such as concrete and wood, which not only provide durability but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The incorporation of extensive glass elements is another significant aspect of the architecture, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments. This design choice not only maximizes natural light but also encourages residents to engage with nature, contributing to their overall well-being.

The architectural design integrates green terraces and communal gardens, promoting outdoor activities and offering residents opportunities for gardening—a practice that can be therapeutic and fulfilling. These thoughtful features reflect a broader understanding of the needs and desires of the elderly population, emphasizing the importance of both physical and mental health.

The interplay of different building volumes creates a dynamic and inviting exterior, while the thoughtful spatial organization enhances the internal experience. Each area is designed with a clear purpose, whether it be for relaxation, social interaction, or personal reflection. The architecture promotes a sense of belonging within the community, making the residence not just a place to live, but a vibrant community where residents can thrive.

This architectural project exemplifies an inclusive and contemporary approach to senior living, marrying function with aesthetic appeal. The focus on accessibility, community spaces, and integration with the natural environment sets a new standard in the design of residential facilities for the elderly. For those interested in exploring the nuances of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design details can provide greater insight into the thoughtful considerations that underpin this well-crafted residence.
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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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