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Elderly Living Community Featuring Local Stone and Green Roofing Solutions

Authors:
William Benjamin, Steven Buenas

Project in-detail

Nestled within the picturesque vineyards of Portugal, this meticulously designed elderly living community combines local stone craftsmanship and green roofing to foster a vibrant, accessible environment that emphasizes social interaction and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates local stone for the walls, reflecting the regional architecture and minimizing environmental impact.
02
Green roofs are integrated into the structure to enhance biodiversity and support natural insulation.
03
A network of accessible pathways, including gently sloping ramps, facilitates mobility for residents with varying physical abilities.
04
Community therapy rooms are strategically placed to promote health and wellness activities among residents.
05
The layout mimics traditional Portuguese street patterns, fostering a sense of familiarity and community interaction.
The project under discussion presents a thoughtfully designed architectural solution aimed at creating a vibrant living environment for the elderly. This initiative recognizes the importance of community-oriented spaces and integrates them within the natural landscape of rural Portugal. The architectural design not only addresses the functional needs of its residents but also embraces the cultural context of the region where it is situated.

The essence of the project lies in promoting a sense of belonging and social interaction among its inhabitants. This is achieved through the strategic arrangement of buildings that form interconnected pathways, encouraging residents to engage with one another and partake in shared activities. By mimicking the quaint, narrow streets found in traditional Portuguese towns, the design fosters an environment conducive to camaraderie and social integration. This focus on community support is particularly critical for the elderly, who often seek companionship as a vital aspect of their living experience.

Functionally, the project comprises various essential components designed to support the needs of its residents. Among these are communal facilities such as a café, library, dining areas, and therapy rooms, all serving vital roles in enhancing day-to-day living. The architectural plans have been mindful of creating adaptable spaces that can accommodate diverse activities and gatherings. This flexibility ensures that the village remains responsive to changing needs over time, which is particularly important in environments serving aging populations.

The architectural design showcases distinctive features that set this project apart. A central aspect is its biophilic design approach, emphasizing the integration of nature within the built environment. This is achieved through extensive use of natural materials, including locally sourced stone and wood, which not only provide durability but also create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, green roofs are employed to enhance thermal performance while promoting biodiversity, allowing the project to align with contemporary sustainability practices.

Accessibility is another critical factor woven into the architectural design. Thoughtfully designed ramps and pathways ensure that all areas of the village are navigable for residents with diverse levels of mobility. This focus on inclusivity not only enhances the residential experience but also encourages residents to remain active and engaged in their surroundings, contributing to overall well-being.

The project embraces a commitment to sustainability, evident in the careful selection of materials and design choices that reduce environmental impact. Natural ventilation and daylight are prioritized to create healthy living spaces, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. This holistic approach to design reflects a growing awareness of the importance of sustainable living in architecture today.

Moreover, the interior spaces have been designed with attention to detail, utilizing color palettes and textures that resonate with the calm and tranquility of the natural context. The goal is to create an inviting atmosphere that promotes a sense of peace and restfulness—qualities that are particularly valuable for older residents.

For those looking to delve deeper into the architectural nuances of this project, it is worthwhile to explore the architectural plans and sections that detail the layout and functionality of each space. By examining these elements, one can gain a fuller understanding of how design choices support both individual needs and community dynamics. The architectural ideas presented here reflect a commitment to thoughtful planning necessary to foster an engaging and supportive living environment. Exploring the project presentation will offer further insights into how each aspect has been carefully considered to contribute to the overall objectives of the initiative.
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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
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