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Circular Community Design Featuring Timber Slats and Natural Light Integration

Author:
Nina Knipiglova
Circular Community Design Featuring Timber Slats and Natural Light Integration

Project in-detail

With a circular layout that emphasizes natural light and community interaction, the design incorporates timber slats and sustainable materials to create a comfortable living environment for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances social interaction and accessibility among residents.
02
Timber slats provide privacy while allowing filtered natural light into living spaces.
03
Central courtyard integrates vegetation, promoting an outdoor communal gathering space.
04
Passive solar principles reduce energy demands and enhance indoor climate comfort.
05
Green roof contributes to insulation and supports local biodiversity initiatives.
The Portugal Elderly Home represents an innovative approach to elder care architecture, focusing on creating a nurturing and community-oriented environment for its residents. Situated in the tranquil region of Bairrada, Portugal, this project effectively marries functionality with aesthetic considerations, designed to address the specific needs of elderly individuals. The central feature of this design is its circular form, which promotes an organized flow while ensuring privacy and accessibility within the living space.

The architectural design emphasizes natural elements and sustainability, utilizing materials that contribute to the overall comfort and well-being of residents. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, timber slats for the façade that balance privacy with openness, and extensive glass elements to enhance light and visibility throughout the interior spaces. This combination of materials fosters a connection to the surrounding landscape, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages outdoor engagement.

Community interaction is prioritized through a series of carefully designed communal spaces, including a central courtyard that serves as a focal point for social gatherings. This layout facilitates easy navigation while promoting a sense of belonging among residents. The integration of nature reflects a commitment to enhancing mental health, as the design incorporates vegetation that not only beautifies the surroundings but also encourages outdoor activity.

One notable aspect of the project is its circular design, which deviates from traditional rectangular layouts often seen in similar facilities. This unique approach allows for more effective circulation and creates a less imposing architectural presence in the context of its environment. The careful consideration of natural light and ventilation emphasizes a sustainable philosophy within the residential care model, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems.

The interior layout balances private and communal areas, providing residents with personal living spaces that can be customized to their preferences. The architecture acknowledges the importance of individuality and comfort while fostering community connections. The presence of a green roof further enhances sustainability efforts, serving as an additional layer of insulation and promoting biodiversity.

This project sets a benchmark for future developments in elder care by integrating thoughtful design principles and community-centric approaches. For more details on this project, including architectural plans, sections, and a deeper exploration of the architectural concepts, consider reviewing the project presentation. There, one can delve into the specific design ideas that make the Portugal Elderly Home a relevant case study in contemporary architectural practice focused on elder care environments.
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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
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