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Interconnecting Masses of Natural Stone and Reinforced Concrete in a Community Hub for Seniors

Author:
Hakam Debayat
Interconnecting Masses of Natural Stone and Reinforced Concrete in a Community Hub for Seniors

Project in-detail

Intersecting volumes of reinforced concrete and natural stone create a visually engaging dialogue with outdoor spaces, designed to enhance community interaction among senior residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Interconnecting building masses enhance flow and accessibility throughout the community hub.
02
Water features are strategically placed to foster relaxation and social interaction among residents.
03
Natural stone facades blend with the surrounding landscape, promoting harmony with the environment.
04
Flexible multi-purpose rooms are designed to accommodate various activities, encouraging engagement.
05
Terraced gardens provide outdoor gathering spaces that enhance the connection to nature.

## Overview

"Be In Touch" is an architectural project designed to enhance connectivity and engagement among elderly residents within an urban context. Located in a setting that integrates both natural landscapes and community dynamics, the project addresses issues of isolation and social interaction, providing spaces that promote active participation in community life.

### Interconnected Spaces

The design features two intersecting masses that embody a philosophy of mutual support and interaction, establishing a balance between varied social experiences and physical connections. Carefully planned walking paths and visual corridors facilitate movement throughout the facility and into surrounding areas, promoting accessibility for seniors. The integration of natural elements, such as water features, serves not only as a visual focal point but also reinforces the thematic emphasis on life and hope, nurturing both emotional and social well-being.

### Materiality and Functional Layout

Materials selected for the project include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, glass facades for enhanced transparency and natural light, and natural stone for warmth and texture. The interior layout is designed to optimize both privacy and communal interaction, featuring an open main entrance, private rooms with easy access to shared spaces, and multi-purpose rooms to host a variety of activities. Functional areas, such as a chapel for reflection and a restaurant for communal dining, are strategically placed to foster social ties and spiritual engagement among residents. The overall spatial strategy promotes both physical mobility and meaningful connections, reflecting the project's intent to create a supportive living environment.

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

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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