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Cork Facades and Polycarbonate Light Screens in a Multifunctional Senior Living Facility

Authors:
Kexin Li, Yang Meng
Cork Facades and Polycarbonate Light Screens in a Multifunctional Senior Living Facility

Project in-detail

Utilizing cork facades and polycarbonate light screens, the design creates a pet-friendly environment that promotes social interaction and accessibility for senior residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork facades enhance thermal insulation while providing a natural aesthetic.
02
Polycarbonate light screens maximize daylight penetration and privacy.
03
The terraced layout facilitates easy movement and social interaction among residents.
04
Pet therapy areas are integrated, encouraging companionship for seniors.
05
Accessible ramps replace traditional stairs, ensuring mobility for all residents.
The N.N. Portugal Elderly Home is an innovative architectural project designed to enhance the living conditions of the elderly. Located in Leiria, Portugal, the design provides a conducive environment that prioritizes social interactions and health management through a thoughtful integration of space and function. The facility incorporates features that support the presence of animal companions, which serve to alleviate feelings of isolation and promote emotional well-being among residents.

Unique Design Approach: Integration with Nature and Animal Companionship

This project stands out due to its incorporation of animal-assisted therapy as a fundamental element of its architectural design. The layout facilitates interactions between residents and their pets, creating a sense of community and companionship. This design fosters a nurturing environment and addresses the psychological needs of the elderly, differentiating it from conventional nursing homes.

The building's organizational structure includes terraced levels that accommodate varying accessibility needs, allowing residents easy movement throughout the facility. The careful positioning of communal spaces encourages socialization, while private areas provide necessary retreats. Additionally, strategically placed gardens and green spaces further enhance the connection between residents and their surroundings.

Functionality and Material Considerations

The N.N. Portugal Elderly Home employs a range of environmentally conscious materials, including polycarbonate hollow sheets that contribute to natural light diffusion and cork, which enhances the acoustic properties of the interior. These materials not only reduce environmental impact but also create a warm, inviting ambience beneficial for elderly residents.

The architectural design emphasizes safety and accessibility, eliminating barriers commonly found in traditional nursing home layouts. Low inclinations in ramps and pathway designs ensure ease of mobility. Each area of the home is purposefully designed to facilitate both individual care and communal activities, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of the unique requirements of elderly residents.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design strategies, we encourage readers to explore the project presentation further. Engaging with the architectural drawings and detailed designs will provide valuable insights into the innovative approaches taken in this project.
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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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