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Dual Facade and Community Hub Constructed with Durable Brick and Glazing

Author:
Dana Wander-silberstein
Dual Facade and Community Hub Constructed with Durable Brick and Glazing

Project in-detail

Constructed with a double facade and large expanses of glazing, this community hub integrates durable brick with green roofs and outdoor allotments to provide an accessible living environment for seniors in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a dual facade for enhanced thermal efficiency and aesthetics.
02
Features large glazing panels to maximize natural light in living spaces.
03
Incorporates accessible outdoor gardens designed for communal gardening activities.
04
Utilizes durable brick in combination with adaptive reuse strategies for historic value.
05
Includes flexible interior layouts that can easily adapt to changing resident needs.
The High Homes project is an architectural design that addresses the pressing need for senior housing within urban areas. Located in the town of Bedford, the project integrates residential units with communal and retail spaces in a mixed-use environment. The design prioritizes accessibility and fosters social engagement, aiming to reduce isolation among elderly residents while revitalizing the surrounding urban context.

The primary function of High Homes is to provide a supportive living environment for seniors, accompanied by integrated facilities that encourage community interaction. This multifunctional approach enables residents to remain engaged with their surroundings and facilitates connections with multiple generations. High Homes serves as a model for how senior housing can coexist harmoniously within dense urban settings, contributing to both individual well-being and community vitality.

Environmental sustainability is a critical aspect of the High Homes design. The building features a double-skinned facade that enhances thermal efficiency, and extensive glazing allows for natural light to penetrate deep into the living spaces. This combination minimizes reliance on artificial lighting and helps regulate indoor temperatures. Additionally, the inclusion of solar panels underscores a commitment to renewable energy solutions, while green roofs and gardens provide both aesthetic appeal and functional green space for residents.

Unique design approaches differentiate High Homes from conventional senior housing projects. The architecture incorporates flexible interior layouts that allow for adaptations based on residents' evolving needs. This flexibility includes communal facilities such as craft spaces and a café that encourage socialization and participation in community events. Furthermore, the integration of outdoor allotments promotes gardening as a therapeutic activity, connecting residents to nature and enhancing mental well-being.

In summary, High Homes exemplifies an architectural response to the complexities of modern senior living. The design successfully integrates residential, communal, and retail spaces while emphasizing sustainability and accessibility. For a more comprehensive understanding of its design framework, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and innovative ideas that underpin this project.
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MICROHOME
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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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