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Eco-Friendly Community Housing Featuring Beige Lime Plaster And Sustainable Outdoor Spaces

Author:
Bettina Pusa
Eco-Friendly Community Housing Featuring Beige Lime Plaster And Sustainable Outdoor Spaces

Project in-detail

Beige lime plaster and orange ceramic tiles define a residential development in Portugal that seamlessly integrates flexible communal spaces and private outdoor areas, promoting sustainable living for its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Beige lime plaster enhances thermal regulation while providing a natural aesthetic.
02
Orange ceramic tiles accentuate architectural features, adding color and texture to the façade.
03
Flexible communal spaces encourage social interaction, integrating private and shared areas.
04
The design prioritizes cross-ventilation to improve indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
05
Outdoor terraces incorporate climbing plants for natural shading and habitat support.
The architectural project "Escada" is a residential development located in Portugal, designed to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants by fostering community engagement while offering individual privacy. This project emphasizes a connection between the living spaces and the surrounding landscape, integrating functional design with environmental consideration.

The design is structured to accommodate communal areas alongside private living units, creating an adaptable environment where residents can thrive. The building comprises two stories, with the ground level dedicated to communal amenities such as a lobby and shared dining spaces, encouraging interaction among residents. Each residential unit features balconies and terraces, allowing for personal outdoor spaces that invite interaction with the natural surroundings.

Design Approach and Materiality

What sets "Escada" apart from conventional housing projects is its thoughtful integration with the local environment. The use of beige lime plaster for exterior walls provides an earthy aesthetic, while orange ceramic tiles highlight specific architectural features, contributing to the overall visual identity of the building. The incorporation of wooden structural elements not only enhances thermal efficiency but also supports sustainable building practices. The concrete composite structure ensures durability and resilience in varying weather conditions, while painted concrete surfaces balance maintenance needs and visual appeal.

The unique design approach is reflected in the layout of the residential units, which are strategically positioned to maximize views and light exposure. The building’s orientation allows for cross-ventilation, improving indoor air quality and thermal comfort. The inclusion of communal outdoor areas promotes socialization, including a central courtyard designed for relaxation and interaction, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to community living.

Architectural Functionality and Spatial Organization

The architectural functionality of "Escada" is enhanced by its spatial organization, balancing individual privacy with community accessibility. The lobby serves as a central hub, facilitating movement within the building and connecting communal and residential spaces. The residential units are designed flexibly to cater to different lifestyles, featuring adaptable layouts to accommodate single or twin-room configurations.

Incorporating elements such as white metal railings and a white roof not only reinforces safety and comfort but also contributes to the overall design coherence. The architectural decisions focus on maintaining a connection with nature by including elements like movable wooden shutters and climbing plants, which regulate temperature and integrate greenery into the living experience.

For a more in-depth understanding of the architectural design and its unique qualities, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs associated with "Escada." These elements will provide further insights into the project’s innovative approach to residential architecture and its focus on community and sustainability.
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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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