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Curved Red Brick Courtyards with Indigenous Gardens in a Community-Focused Living Space

Authors:
Vlad Olaru, Alexandru Călin, Andra Drăgan, Bogdan Mihăilă
Curved Red Brick Courtyards with Indigenous Gardens in a Community-Focused Living Space

Project in-detail

Emphasizing circular forms and vibrant red brick, the design seamlessly integrates indigenous gardens and communal spaces to enhance connections among residents within a thoughtfully planned living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates circular courtyards that promote social interaction among residents.
02
Reddish-pink brick facades blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings to enhance visual warmth.
03
Operable windows provide natural ventilation and optimize daylight throughout communal areas.
04
Indigenous plants are integrated into landscaping, fostering local biodiversity and ecological awareness.
05
The bent A-frame structure allows for unique spatial configurations while ensuring structural integrity.
The architectural project under analysis embodies a thoughtful response to the need for community-focused living spaces that foster connection with both residents and nature. This design encapsulates a holistic approach to architecture, emphasizing the interplay between structural elements, functional spaces, and the surrounding environment. The building presents itself as a warm and inviting residence that reflects the emotional ties and familial relationships cherished by its occupants.

At the core of this architectural project is its dual function of providing individual private living units while simultaneously promoting communal activities. The layout carefully balances personal space with common areas, ensuring that residents can interact with one another while also enjoying moments of solitude. This duality is vital to the well-being of the inhabitants, as it encourages the development of a close-knit community where relationships can flourish.

The architectural design is characterized by its use of a reddish-pink brick or monolithic material, which not only contributes to the building's structural integrity but also enhances its aesthetic appeal. The choice of this warm hue is intentional, harmonizing with the nature surrounding the building and creating a sense of belonging within the environment. This materiality plays a crucial role in establishing a visual identity that is both unique and contextually relevant.

Key design features include a series of circular courtyards, each brimming with indigenous plants and trees. These garden spaces serve as both a visual and experiential centerpiece, inviting residents to engage with nature and each other. The gardens are designed to encourage exploration and social interaction, with pathways that facilitate movement between outdoor spaces. This design approach reinforces the project's mission to create communal ties and enrich the lives of its residents.

Natural light is another critical component of this architectural project, with large, operable windows designed to maximize daylight while providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful consideration of daylighting not only enhances the aesthetic experience of the interiors but also promotes mental well-being, allowing residents to feel connected to the outside world even within the confines of their home. The interplay of light and space affirms the project’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its inhabitants.

Additionally, the building incorporates unique circular forms in its layout, which are not only visually appealing but also provide functional benefits. These curves create softer transitions between spaces, reducing the starkness often associated with traditional linear designs. The design choices reflect an understanding of how architectural forms can affect both social interactions and individual experiences within a built environment.

In terms of functionality, the design features a semi-basement that accommodates services and staff areas, thereby keeping the residential spaces quiet and focused on community life. The ground floor houses communal amenities such as a dining area and library, crafting a central hub for activities and gatherings. Upper levels are dedicated to private living accommodations, ensuring that residents have the necessary privacy to thrive while still being part of a broader community fabric.

The architectural project stands out not only for its thoughtful approach to materiality and spatial organization but also for its intention to create a nurturing atmosphere. The design encapsulates the essence of collective living while respecting the individual needs of its residents, merging the practical with the profound. It serves as a model for future projects, illustrating how architecture can influence social dynamics and foster deeper human connections.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this architectural project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design concepts, engaging with the comprehensive presentation will reveal further insights into the unique ideas and approaches that drive this compelling endeavor. The examination of architectural details and the careful consideration of both functional and aesthetic elements reflect a commitment to elevating community living through thoughtful design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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