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Curvilinear Forms Enhanced by Charred Wooden Shingles for Holistic Senior Living

Authors:
Tulay KarakaŞ, Ebru Çelebİ, Ayse Ebru Atici, Burcu Nimet Dumlu
Curvilinear Forms Enhanced by Charred Wooden Shingles for Holistic Senior Living

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms adorned with charred wooden shingles create an inviting and sustainable environment tailored for senior living, promoting well-being and social interaction through strategically designed communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear pathways enhance movement and social interaction among residents.
02
Therapeutic gardens designed for sensory engagement are integrated throughout the site.
03
Use of charred wooden shingles for aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
04
Central public areas connect diverse communal spaces promoting community engagement.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to both sustainability and structural integrity.
The architectural design project of 3E Senior Housing represents a modern approach to residential facilities aimed at enhancing the well-being of older adults. Situated in a metropolitan area on the West Coast of the USA, the project combines thoughtful architecture with principles derived from neuroscience. The facility prioritizes enriched living, embodied experiences, and engagement, creating an environment conducive to healthy aging.

Each area of the design has been meticulously planned to foster interactions among residents while ensuring access to essential amenities. Central to the project are various communal hubs connected by curvilinear pathways, which facilitate movement and navigation, reducing the barriers often present in traditional senior living complexes.

Spatial Organization and Design Elements

The unique aspect of the 3E Senior Housing project lies in its intentional spatial organization. Unlike conventional linear layouts, this project features radial arrangements that enhance social connectivity among residents. The design integrates public, semi-public, and private spaces, thus catering to diverse interaction levels. Key communal spaces include therapeutic gardens and gathering areas strategically located around a central courtyard, promoting a sense of community while offering tranquil retreats.

The use of curvilinear forms throughout the design not only contributes aesthetically but also symbolizes flow and movement. This approach contrasts with traditional boxy structures, allowing for more inviting and approachable atmospheres. Natural light is prioritized through the use of expansive glazing, which fosters a connection to the outdoors and promotes mental well-being.

Materiality and Sustainability

The architectural materiality of the project is carefully chosen to support both functional and aesthetic goals. Concrete provides structural strength; wood infuses warmth and character; glass invites natural light; and steel delivers modernity. The integration of natural stone elements enhances the connection between the facility and its surrounding landscape.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the 3E Senior Housing project. Incorporating energy-efficient strategies such as photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems underlines a commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, the design emphasizes natural ventilation and thermal comfort, ensuring that the interior spaces are both pleasant and energy-efficient.

Overall, the unique design approaches found in the 3E Senior Housing project provide essential insights into modern architectural thinking around senior living. By focusing on enriched living environments and community connectivity, this project sets itself apart from typical senior housing developments. For a deeper understanding of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, exploring the detailed project presentation is highly encouraged.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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