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Grass Ramp and Rooftop Garden in Cross-Laminated Timber Residence for Elderly Care

Authors:
Meijia Sun, Yaodong Li, Yiyang Liu, Lun Hu
Grass Ramp and Rooftop Garden in Cross-Laminated Timber Residence for Elderly Care

Project in-detail

Incorporating a grass ramp for accessibility and a rooftop garden for self-sufficiency, this four-story residence is built with cross-laminated timber to create a supportive community environment for elderly care.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a grass ramp for enhanced accessibility across sloped terrain.
02
Features a rooftop garden that serves as a source for fresh produce.
03
Constructed primarily with cross-laminated timber for improved sustainability.
04
Includes rolling shutters for efficient sun shading and privacy control.
05
Layouts support both communal living and individual privacy for residents.
The "Good Neighbor" project is an architectural design focused on creating an elderly home integrated into a sloping hillside landscape. This four-story structure aims to promote active aging, individual dignity, and self-reliance among its residents. It fosters a sense of community while respecting the privacy and autonomy of individuals. By employing sustainable design principles, this project offers an environmentally conscious solution for assisted living.

Access and Movement
One of the unique attributes of the design is the incorporation of a grass ramp connecting two residential buildings. This element serves as an accessible approach for all residents, encouraging social interaction and community engagement. The design also features a rooftop garden, which not only provides a green space for relaxation but serves as a source for fresh produce, promoting self-sufficiency among elderly residents. The rolling shutter structure allows for effective sun shading while also enhancing the overall aesthetic, creating familiar and inviting spaces.

Material and Structural Considerations
The material selection is critical to the project’s functionality and sustainability. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) serves as the primary structural element, offering durability while ensuring thermal efficiency. Large glass panels are utilized throughout the building to maximize natural light in communal areas, enhancing the wellbeing and comfort of the residents. Steel components add structural stability, while wooden finishes create warm, inviting interiors. Natural stone materials are used for surfaces such as countertops, evoking a sense of permanence and connection with nature.

Interior spaces are designed to promote social interaction, featuring expansive dining areas that encourage collaboration and communal dining experiences. The incorporation of multifunctional spaces allows for various activities and events, further enhancing resident engagement. The layout supports both individual privacy and community connectivity, a balance critical to the success of a residential care facility.

This architectural project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to elderly living by combining accessibility, sustainability, and a focus on social cohesion. To explore its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas in greater depth, further examination of the project presentation is 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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