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Pyramidal Design Constructed with Bamboo and Local Stone for Elderly Community Living

Pyramidal Design Constructed with Bamboo and Local Stone for Elderly Community Living
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Constructed with locally sourced bamboo and stone in a pyramidal form, the residence fosters a supportive community for the elderly, emphasizing cultural heritage and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a pyramidal form that reflects local cultural beliefs.
02
Integrates a communal hub to enhance social interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes bamboo for roofing, aligning with sustainable practices and local materials.
04
Incorporates a landscaped buffer zone for recreational and transitional purposes.
05
Features dual-layered spaces that symbolize the connection between spiritual and physical realms.

## Project Overview

Ate-Tehed Jabu, located in North Sumatra, Indonesia, is designed to provide a supportive environment for the elderly. This residential complex integrates aspects of local cultural significance and familial connections into its architecture, drawing upon the traditional principles of Karo Regeng culture and the architectural style of Silawahi Jabu. The layout reflects a merging of traditional cultural concepts with contemporary architectural practices, aiming to foster a sense of community and belonging among its residents.

## Spatial Organization and Circulation

The building's spatial organization is characterized by three distinct functional layers, symbolizing spiritual and physical realms. The core area functions as a communal hub, facilitating social interaction and community activities. Adjacent to this is the supporter area, designated for residents requiring assistance, thereby ensuring their needs are met within a caring framework. A landscaped buffer zone also serves to connect the structure with its surroundings while providing recreational opportunities.

Accessibility has been prioritized throughout the design, featuring wide pathways and clear sightlines to enhance movement for the elderly. Integrated accessibility features maintain a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, allowing residents to navigate the space with ease.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection is integral to the project's cultural narrative and sustainability goals. Predominantly sourced local materials include wood for structural framing, stone for foundational elements, and bamboo for roofing. These elements not only promote environmental responsibility but also connect the building to local traditions and craftsmanship. Concrete is utilized in pathways for durability, while large areas of glass are incorporated to maximize natural light and foster a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The thoughtful use of materials reflects a commitment to ecological sustainability and supports the well-being of residents through a warm and inviting atmosphere, reinforcing the project's emphasis on cultural relevance and environmental stewardship.

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Competition organisers

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.

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