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Monolithic Masonry Integration With Natural Surroundings in Elderly Care Facility

Author:
Hoanh Tran
Monolithic Masonry Integration With Natural Surroundings in Elderly Care Facility

Project in-detail

Utilizing a monolithic masonry approach that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, this elderly care facility prioritizes accessibility and community within its thoughtfully designed communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic masonry construction creates a seamless integration with the surrounding landscape.
02
A gently sloping ramp serves as both a pathway and community plaza for residents.
03
The facility includes 20 en suite single and twin rooms, tailored for diverse living arrangements.
04
Strategic use of large windows enhances natural light while connecting interior spaces to the outdoors.
05
The design prioritizes accessibility, ensuring ease of movement throughout all communal areas.
The “Portugal Elderly Home” is a thoughtfully designed architectural project dedicated to providing a supportive and accessible living environment for senior citizens. This facility seamlessly integrates into its natural surroundings while addressing the specific needs of its inhabitants. The design emphasizes ease of access and community-oriented spaces, ensuring both social interaction and comfort for residents.

The structure features several interconnected single-story buildings, each designed to facilitate mobility and create a sense of community. The layout prioritizes accessibility with a gently sloping ramp that connects various functional areas. The building spaces are organized to promote interaction while maintaining individual privacy, which is essential in a residential setting for older adults. The project includes 20 en suite single rooms and 20 en suite twin rooms to cater to different living arrangements.

The architectural approach integrates the natural landscape by employing a monolithic design that mimics the local geological formations. This design strategy not only grounds the facility in its context but also fosters an inviting atmosphere. The use of a cohesive material palette, primarily masonry, enhances the project's durability and aesthetic appeal. Large glass windows throughout the structure allow for ample natural light and unobstructed views of the surrounding scenery, further connecting residents with their environment.

Community-Centric Design
Unique to the “Portugal Elderly Home” is its emphasis on communal spaces as focal points within the architectural layout. The central community plaza serves as an active hub for residents, encouraging social gatherings and activities. This design fosters a strong sense of community among residents, which is critical for their emotional well-being. Key features of the communal areas include the kitchen, dining room, library, chapel, and other multifunctional spaces that are easily accessible.

The arrangement of individual rooms around these communal zones facilitates interaction while ensuring that privacy is respected. This balance between socialization and solitude is particularly important in a setting that supports elderly individuals, many of whom may experience social isolation. The careful configuration of spaces aims to enhance quality of life while respecting individual needs.

Sustainable and Contextual Material Use
The material selection plays a vital role in the overall project vision. By utilizing primarily masonry, the design achieves a durable, low-maintenance solution that aligns with the regional vernacular. Wood elements provide warmth and comfort in interior spaces, enhancing residents' experience. The project emphasizes not only aesthetic harmony with the landscape but also operational sustainability through the careful selection of long-lasting materials.

The architectural design approaches of the “Portugal Elderly Home” prioritize both functionality and aesthetics, ensuring a supportive environment for its elderly residents. The thoughtful integration of communal spaces, accessibility features, and contextual material choices make this project a model for modern elder care facilities. For further understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail.
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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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