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Perforated Brick Facade Enhances Natural Light in Community-Focused Elder Care Facility

Author:
Jin Li
Perforated Brick Facade Enhances Natural Light in Community-Focused Elder Care Facility

Project in-detail

A perforated brick facade allows for optimal natural light and ventilation, creating an inviting environment in a community-oriented elder care facility designed to foster social interaction and personal privacy.
5 key facts about this project
01
Perforated brick facade enhances natural light and air circulation throughout the building.
02
Therapeutic gardens integrated into communal spaces foster resident well-being and social interaction.
03
Private living quarters designed with adaptability to meet individual resident needs and preferences.
04
Flexible communal areas support various activities and events, encouraging community engagement.
05
Strategic use of traditional materials roots the design in cultural significance while promoting sustainability.
The "Ferry" architectural project is a new eldercare facility located in Ouhai District, Nanchang, China. It addresses specific cultural and demographic needs by creating a supportive, community-oriented environment for the elderly. The design encompasses both private and communal spaces, encouraging social interaction while maintaining individual comfort and autonomy. This project not only functions as a care facility but also seeks to be a sanctuary where older adults can engage with one another and their families in a nurturing atmosphere.

Unique Cultural Integration
What sets the "Ferry" project apart from conventional eldercare facilities is its commitment to integrating cultural principles into the architectural design. The building’s form derives from traditional Chinese housing, incorporating elements that symbolize the transition of life stages. The use of red-fired brick as a primary material offers a tactile sense of warmth and strength, reflecting the structure's purpose. Openings in the facade promote natural light and airflow, crucial for creating a comfortable living environment. The project also includes therapeutic gardens and quiet meditation areas, transforming the facility into a peaceful retreat. By focusing on these unique elements, "Ferry" solidifies its role as a supportive environment for both residents and their families.

Architectural Functionality and Layout
The design prioritizes efficient spatial organization, facilitating both communal activities and private living. The ground floor houses welcoming communal areas where residents can engage in social activities. These spaces are designed with flexibility in mind, able to accommodate various events and gatherings. The upper floors contain private living quarters that ensure residents have a personal space tailored to their needs. This strategic division between public and private areas embodies the philosophy of balance, offering both social integration and personal privacy. Additionally, elements like thermal dispersion strategies are incorporated to enhance energy efficiency, ensuring comfort year-round while being mindful of operational costs.

For more detailed insights into the "Ferry" project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation.
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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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