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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Create Community-Focused Living for Seniors

Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Create Community-Focused Living for Seniors
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Incorporating cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the design transforms traditional senior living into a community-focused environment that prioritizes accessibility and social engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, allowing for unique spatial dynamics and natural light penetration.
04
Integrates accessible pathways and communal gardens specifically designed for senior mobility needs.
05
Includes multifunctional communal spaces to promote social interaction among residents.

## Project Overview

This architectural design project is situated in a context that prioritizes the needs of senior citizens, particularly those living with Alzheimer’s disease. The intention is to foster community, accessibility, and engagement, addressing the issues of isolation that are common within this demographic. The design draws inspiration from the 'Bielefeld model,' promoting the concept of “Alzheimer villages” to create a living environment that encourages interaction and independence among residents.

## Spatial Configuration and Community Integration

The layout of the project consists of three interconnected buildings housing 34 apartments, including 20 that are handicap accessible and 4 specifically designed for wheelchair use. The buildings are organized to encourage community interaction, with a central area that features essential services such as a grocery shop and a café. Courtyards and green spaces are strategically positioned between the buildings to enhance the outdoor experience and facilitate social engagement, particularly for residents with mobility challenges.

## Material Utilization and Architectural Intent

The architectural language emphasizes simplicity and functionality, utilizing a material palette that includes engineered timber for warmth and aesthetic appeal, as well as glass for expansive window spaces that maximize natural light. Concrete is employed in flooring and foundation elements to ensure durability, while steel is utilized for structural support, particularly in balconies and communal areas. Each apartment features a private balcony to promote individual outdoor space while maintaining connections to communal areas below. This design strategy not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also supports a sustainable approach in both form and function.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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