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Integrated Memory Spaces Enhanced by Natural Timber and Courtyard Design for Elderly Living

Author:
Jiawen Du
Integrated Memory Spaces Enhanced by Natural Timber and Courtyard Design for Elderly Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing memory spaces and a central courtyard, the design integrates natural timber materials to create a supportive environment for elderly residents focused on fostering community connections.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes memory spaces specifically designed for cognitive support.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to promote social interaction among residents.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural aesthetics.
04
Employs charred wooden shingles for sustainability and weather resistance.
05
Integrates navigational corridors tailored for accessibility to elderly users.

### Project Overview
Located in the historic Haiyuncang Hutong of Dongcheng District, Beijing, the design responds to the neighborhood's rich history as a former granary, now evolving into a residential area that primarily serves an elderly population. The intent of the development is to acknowledge this historical context while addressing contemporary needs, particularly the social engagement and well-being of older adults.

### Spatial Organization
The arrangement of spaces is strategically designed to foster community interaction and accessibility. Community spaces are centrally located around a courtyard, promoting socialization, while outdoor gardens encircle the building, providing green areas for interaction with nature. The design incorporates transition corridors to facilitate navigation for elderly residents, with the first floor functioning as a communal hub that can accommodate various social activities. Additionally, the layout features a mix of private and semi-private living quarters that balance community engagement with personal privacy.

### Materiality and Design Strategies
The choice of materials reflects both durability and warmth, incorporating reinforced concrete for structural elements, timber for aesthetic appeal, and glass to permit ample natural light. These materials work together to create an environment that respects traditional architectural elements while providing a modern sensibility. Key features include specially designed memory spaces for individuals with cognitive impairments, as well as intergenerational zones that encourage interaction between elderly residents and younger community members. Articulated light wells enhance shared areas with natural illumination, contributing to the emotional well-being of users.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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