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Integrating Green Metal Paneling and Brick for Sustainable Senior Living

Author:
Xuanzhi Zhang
Integrating Green Metal Paneling and Brick for Sustainable Senior Living

Project in-detail

The combination of green metal paneling and brick creates a visually distinct facade that supports an intergenerational community living environment, designed to enhance engagement and wellness for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates green metal paneling to reduce heat gain while enhancing aesthetics.
02
Features a mix of communal and private spaces to foster intergenerational interactions.
03
Utilizes brick for lower levels, providing a familiar context within the urban environment.
04
Incorporates large glazing elements promoting natural light throughout the building.
05
Includes outdoor gardens that enhance mental well-being and community engagement.

The Grafted House is an architectural project designed to serve the needs of the elderly population by fostering community integration and promoting intergenerational interaction. It embodies a modern housing typology that not only provides private living spaces but also encourages social engagement and shared experiences. The design integrates communal areas, private accommodations, and wellness facilities, creating a comprehensive living environment that addresses both the physical and social needs of its residents.

Spatial Layout and Functionality

The Grafted House features a well-considered spatial arrangement that prioritizes accessibility and functionality. The facility includes various public spaces such as dining areas, communal lounges, and fitness centers designed to accommodate both elderly residents and younger individuals. These spaces facilitate interaction and promote a sense of community. The private units are specifically designed to ensure privacy and independence while incorporating universal design principles to enhance accessibility.

Central to the design are also outdoor areas, including gardens and balconies, that not only foster a connection with nature but also provide spaces for social gatherings. This focus on outdoor engagement emphasizes the importance of mental well-being and enhances the living environment of the residents.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing features of the Grafted House is its architectural materiality, which balances traditional and contemporary elements. The use of brick for the lower levels provides a familiar aesthetic, while the upper stories feature green-hued metal paneling that introduces a modern, fresh appearance. This combination respects the surrounding neighborhood context while also making a clear architectural statement.

Another notable aspect of this project is the incorporation of intergenerational learning spaces. These areas are designed to host workshops and activities, enabling knowledge sharing between elderly residents and younger generations. This unique approach to community living helps break down social barriers and creates a dynamic environment that benefits all age groups.

Architectural systems and services are also strategically integrated within the design. Provisions for natural lighting, ventilation, and active design features contribute to a sustainable living environment. By prioritizing health and wellness through carefully planned spaces and facilities, the Grafted House aligns with contemporary trends in elderly care.

As you explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Grafted House, you will gain deeper insights into its innovative approaches and how it addresses the pressing needs of its residents. This analysis underscores the importance of thoughtful architecture in creating functional and supportive living environments for the elderly.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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