Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Curved Mass Timber Structures Integrating Nature-Inspired Community Spaces in Sustainable Elder Living

Authors:
Duncan Walker, Ilijana Soldan, Craig Purcell
Curved Mass Timber Structures Integrating Nature-Inspired Community Spaces in Sustainable Elder Living

Project in-detail

Curved mass timber construction interwoven with intimate community spaces creates a harmonious environment dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults through sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of mass timber construction enhances both sustainability and aesthetic warmth throughout the living spaces.
02
The design incorporates a central courtyard, fostering community interaction and connection with nature.
03
Rooftop gardens are utilized for both leisure and edible herb cultivation, promoting self-sufficiency among residents.
04
Operable windows and natural ventilation systems facilitate passive cooling and heating, improving energy efficiency.
05
The architectural layout prioritizes accessibility and mobility, ensuring ease of movement for all residents.
The architectural design project known as Leiria Cloister reimagines the residential experience for older adults, presenting a space that emphasizes community, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature. This project is situated in Leiria, Portugal, and is guided by the principles of biophilia, which focuses on human interactions with nature, allowing for a living environment that not only addresses the physical needs of its residents but enhances their overall well-being.

Leiria Cloister represents a shift in how architectural spaces are conceived for aging populations. This design is not simply a living facility but a vibrant community that encourages social interaction and personal fulfillment. It transcends conventional notions of eldercare by integrating both private and communal spaces, promoting an atmosphere of companionship and support while respecting individuality.

The functional aspects of Leiria Cloister are carefully orchestrated to ensure ease of access and mobility. The layout features a central courtyard designed as the heartbeat of the community, facilitating interaction among residents. Surrounding this courtyard are various amenities such as therapy rooms, a library, and outdoor seating areas, which serve as venues for gatherings, activities, and relaxation. This emphasis on social spaces helps to foster a sense of belonging and active engagement among residents.

The architectural design employs mass timber as the primary structural material, which not only aligns with sustainable building practices but also offers an aesthetic warmth to the interiors. Insulated concrete forms enhance the thermal efficiency of the building, providing comfort while maintaining a low environmental impact. The use of plaster base coats and stucco adds finishing touches that balance durability with a pleasing appearance. Moreover, the installation of solar panels and wind turbines underscores the project's commitment to sustainability, allowing it to generate renewable energy and decrease reliance on conventional power sources.

A distinctive feature of Leiria Cloister is its thoughtful arrangement of living units. The design includes various options for residential spaces, accommodating both single and double occupants. These living units are configured to facilitate natural light and passive ventilation, with large windows and strategic placement of open spaces that connect residents intimately with the outdoors. The resulting environment is one that promotes health and encourages residents to engage in their surroundings actively.

Architectural elements such as green roofs and terrace gardens further enhance the ecological considerations of the project. Rooftop terraces serve both as leisure areas and as productive spaces for growing herbs and vegetables, encouraging a lifestyle centered around self-sufficiency and sustainability. The integration of citrus groves contributes not only to aesthetics but also to the sensory experience of the residents, allowing them to reconnect with nature on multiple levels.

Incorporating biophilic design principles, Leiria Cloister addresses not just the physicality of living spaces but the psychological and emotional needs of its residents. The harmonious balance of privacy in living units and the communal atmosphere of shared spaces exemplify a sophisticated approach to eldercare. The careful attention to detail in the architectural design ensures that mobilities and accessibilities are prioritized, allowing residents to navigate the space comfortably and independently.

The project ultimately serves as a model for future developments aimed at aging populations, demonstrating that thoughtful architecture can play a significant role in enhancing quality of life. The unique aspects of Leiria Cloister, from its material choices to its layout and sustainability features, highlight a progressive vision for elder living, where beauty, community, and ecological mindfulness intersect.

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and design aspects behind Leiria Cloister, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into this innovative project. I encourage you to delve into the specifics of how this project intertwines functionality with aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility.
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