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Courtyard-Centered Community Housing Utilizing Metal Screens and Natural Stone

Author:
Youngki Kim
Courtyard-Centered Community Housing Utilizing Metal Screens and Natural Stone

Project in-detail

Designed with a central courtyard and enhanced by metal screens and natural stone, the housing development prioritizes community interaction while addressing the needs of elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes metal screens for enhanced privacy and light modulation throughout communal spaces.
02
Features a central courtyard designed to foster social interactions among residents.
03
Incorporates natural stone pathways that connect various living units and communal areas.
04
Prioritizes accessibility with wide corridors and gentle ramps for ease of movement.
05
Integrates traditional Korean architectural motifs to reflect cultural heritage in a modern context.
The senior housing project located in South Korea presents a contemporary approach to senior living, emphasizing community-oriented design and integration with the surrounding urban landscape. The architecture focuses on functionality and accessibility, creating a supportive environment for elderly residents while fostering social interaction. The project combines modern design principles with elements that reflect cultural traditions, contributing to a unique living experience.

**Design Concept and Community Integration**

At the core of this project is the concept of community engagement. The design features interconnected living units organized around communal spaces that encourage interaction among residents. The central courtyard acts as a focal point, promoting outdoor activities and providing a tranquil environment for relaxation. This layout not only enhances the livability of the space but also aims to reduce the feelings of isolation often experienced by seniors.

The architecture adopts a thoughtful approach to accessibility, ensuring pathways are navigable for individuals with mobility challenges. Wide corridors, gentle ramps, and strategically placed seating areas create a safe environment. The integration of communal facilities, such as activity rooms and workspaces, fosters a sense of belonging and encourages residents to participate in various social events.

**Materiality and Sustainability**

The material selection in this project plays a significant role in its overall aesthetic and functional performance. The use of glass facades allows for ample natural light while establishing a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Concrete provides structural support and durability, while metal screens offer shading and privacy, enhancing the comfort of communal areas.

Incorporating natural elements, such as stone pathways and green landscaping, enhances the project's connection to its surroundings and promotes sustainability. The design includes features like rooftop gardens and green walls, which contribute to urban biodiversity and improve energy efficiency. These strategies reflect a commitment to sustainable architecture that balances environmental impact with resident well-being.

**Cultural Reflection and Architectural Ideas**

The design reflects the essence of Korean culture, emphasizing familial bonds and community life. By weaving traditional architectural motifs into modern settings, the project serves as a bridge between cultural heritage and contemporary design. The architecture prioritizes family engagement, offering spaces for gatherings and intergenerational activities, thereby reinforcing community ties.

Overall, this senior housing project stands out due to its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for elderly residents through thoughtful design. Its focus on accessibility, sustainability, and cultural integration positions it as a forward-thinking model in senior living architecture. Explore the project presentation for further details on architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that contribute to this vision of modern housing for seniors.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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