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Natural Ventilation and Community Gardening in Eco-Block Residences for Elderly Living

Natural Ventilation and Community Gardening in Eco-Block Residences for Elderly Living
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Utilizing local Eco-Block construction and integrated community gardens, the design creates a supportive environment that fosters intergenerational engagement for elderly residents in Kamwokya-Kampala.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Eco-Block construction to enhance thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Integrates communal gardening spaces specifically designed for elderly residents.
03
Incorporates local timber for structural elements, fostering regional craftsmanship.
04
Features natural ventilation strategies to improve indoor air quality.
05
Encourages intergenerational interactions through thoughtfully arranged communal areas.

## Analytical Report on the Fount Community Architectural Design Project

### Overview
Located in Kamwokya-Kampala, Uganda, the Fount Community project addresses the pressing socio-economic challenges faced by an underserved urban population. Designed as a supportive environment for the elderly, the project fosters intergenerational connections, promoting active engagement between younger and older residents. The site selection strategically considers the dynamics of urban migration and its associated infrastructural deficiencies, aiming to restore dignity and enhance the sense of belonging among community members.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The design prioritizes communal living through a combination of residential and shared spaces, with the central courtyard serving as a focal point for social gatherings. The arrangement of housing units is intended to encourage interaction, while natural ventilation strategies are implemented to ensure comfort in the warm climate. Accessible pathways and ramps facilitate mobility for all residents, particularly benefiting the elderly population.

The integration of community gardens encourages physical activity and engagement with the environment, allowing elders to participate actively in gardening and outdoor activities. The design reflects a commitment to cultural preservation through the use of local materials and traditional construction methods, enhancing the project's connection to the community's heritage.

### Sustainable Materiality and Construction Practices
Sustainability is a key consideration in the project’s material selection and construction methods. Eco-blocks, made from local soil, lime, cement, sand, and water, are utilized to minimize the carbon footprint. The use of lightweight corrugated iron sheets for roofing and local timber for structural elements further reinforces the project's environmental consciousness while respecting local craftsmanship. Additionally, papyrus reeds are incorporated in the ceilings to aid natural ventilation, contributing to healthier living conditions.

The combination of these materials not only serves functional needs but also emphasizes the project's role in fostering cultural identity and continuity. The design embodies a proactive approach to environmental stewardship while enhancing the quality of life for community residents through thoughtfully integrated architectural solutions.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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