Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Circular Atrium Surrounded By Vertical Gardens Using Reinforced Concrete And Natural Stone For Enhanced Community Living

Author:
Nina Knipiglova
Circular Atrium Surrounded By Vertical Gardens Using Reinforced Concrete And Natural Stone For Enhanced Community Living

Project in-detail

Employing a circular atrium design enveloped by vertical gardens and constructed with reinforced concrete and natural stone, this community space redefines elderly living by fostering social interaction and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The circular atrium design enhances natural light and fosters communal interaction among residents.
02
Vertical gardens are integrated throughout the building to improve air quality and provide a connection to nature.
03
The use of reinforced concrete and natural stone ensures durability while maintaining a warm aesthetic.
04
Accessible pathways are strategically designed to promote mobility and ease of navigation for residents.
05
Sustainable features, including green roofs, contribute to energy efficiency and biodiversity within the environment.
The architectural design for the Portugal Elderly Home embodies a thoughtful approach to creating a nurturing and supportive environment tailored for elderly residents. Situated in the picturesque region of Baireia, Portugal, this project represents a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its occupants while seamlessly integrating into the surrounding natural landscape. The design aims to promote not only individual well-being but also community interaction, recognizing the importance of social connections in the lives of seniors.

Functionally, the building is organized into distinct zones that serve various needs, ensuring that all aspects of life within the home are carefully considered. The residential wings are positioned to provide personal living spaces, each equipped with large windows that flood the rooms with natural light. This choice not only improves the living experience but also establishes a visual link to the outdoors. By prioritizing views of nature, the design fosters an atmosphere of relaxation and connection to the environment, which is crucial for the well-being of elderly residents.

Central to the project is the circular atrium, a significant architectural feature that serves as a communal hub. This space is designed to facilitate social interactions among the residents, enabling them to gather and engage in activities together. The use of natural materials, such as stone and wood, in this area contributes to a warm and inviting ambiance. Vertical gardens integrated into the communal sections serve a dual purpose: they enhance aesthetics and improve air quality while providing opportunities for residents to connect with nature, echoing a holistic view of health and well-being.

Sustainability is a key consideration in the overall architectural design. The inclusion of green roofs and solar panels reflects a broader commitment to environmental stewardship. The green roofs not only promote biodiversity but also assist in regulating indoor temperatures, reducing energy consumption. This foresight in sustainable design exemplifies the project's alignment with contemporary architectural practices that prioritize ecological responsibility.

The material selection within the project also plays a vital role in achieving the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes. Reinforced concrete provides the structural backbone, ensuring durability and longevity. The combination of wooden slats on the façade introduces a texture that softens the building’s profile and allows light to filter through, minimizing harsh interior lighting conditions. Glass elements enhance visibility and invite natural light, reinforcing the relationship between inner spaces and their natural surroundings.

A unique design approach adopted in this project is its emphasis on blending communal and private areas effectively. The thoughtful zoning ensures that while residents can engage socially in shared areas, they also have access to private retreats within their living units. This balance is crucial, as it reflects an understanding of the varied social needs of elderly individuals—some of whom may seek solitude while others thrive on social interaction. Furthermore, the circular layout, centered around the atrium, offers efficiency in circulation while providing accessible pathways for residents.

This project stands as a meaningful contribution to the architectural landscape of Baireia, serving as a model for future developments focused on elderly care. By merging functional design with principles of sustainability and community spirit, the Portugal Elderly Home encapsulates a forward-thinking approach to architecture that respects both its inhabitants and the environment. It invites viewers to explore its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, encouraging a deeper understanding of how architecture can thoughtfully address the needs of a specific population while creating an enriching living experience. For those interested in further details, viewing additional visual presentations and illustrations of the project will provide valuable insights into the thoughtful articulation of space and form that defines this architectural endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy