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Rammed Earth Structures with Integrative Community Spaces for Intergenerational Living

Authors:
Isabella Silva Altemani, Nayeon Kim
Rammed Earth Structures with Integrative Community Spaces for Intergenerational Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing rammed earth construction and flexible communal areas, the design fosters intergenerational connections while providing a supportive environment for senior living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes excavated soil from the site to create sustainable rammed earth walls.
02
Features versatile communal areas designed for both social interaction and personal reflection.
03
Incorporates accessible pathways connecting interior spaces to outdoor gardens.
04
Integrates childcare facilities within senior living spaces to promote intergenerational activities.
05
Employs a hybrid structural framework combining steel for durability and flexibility in design.
The architectural project titled "From the Ground Up: Senior Housing in Transformation" is designed to address the needs of an aging population while promoting community engagement through intergenerational living. Its primary function is to create a supportive environment for seniors, incorporating both residential and communal facilities. The project integrates sustainable design principles and a thoughtful layout to foster interaction, accessibility, and wellbeing among residents and visitors.

The architectural design incorporates a mixed-use approach, combining senior housing with cultural and recreational spaces. The layout is designed to encourage movement and connection, featuring pathways that link various areas while providing direct access to outdoor spaces. Each housing unit is crafted to ensure privacy, while communal areas invite socialization and activities, reflecting a careful balance between solitude and community engagement.

The architectural approach utilizes rammed earth for its thermal efficiency, alongside a hybrid structure that incorporates steel. This selection of materials underscores a commitment to sustainability, leveraging resources from the site itself to minimize environmental impact. The project showcases a unique interplay of aesthetics and functionality, with the rammed earth walls not only serving structural purposes but also offering a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The integration of outdoor gardens and communal spaces enhances the living experience, providing venues for gardening, gatherings, and recreational activities. The design prioritizes inclusivity, featuring accessible routes and amenities that cater to varying mobility levels. This ensures that both seniors and younger generations can utilize the facilities fully.

A significant aspect of the project is its intergenerational focus. By situating childcare and cultural spaces adjacent to senior housing, the design promotes interactions among residents of all ages. This approach encourages knowledge exchange, companionship, and mutual support, setting this project apart from traditional senior housing developments.

In summary, "From the Ground Up: Senior Housing in Transformation" redefines the concept of community living for seniors through its thoughtful integration of diverse functions and sustainability practices. For those interested in gaining deeper insights, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the project’s layout and innovative ideas.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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