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Reclaimed Brick and Glass Integration in a Linear Community for Elderly Living

Author:
Gayeon Park
Reclaimed Brick and Glass Integration in a Linear Community for Elderly Living

Project in-detail

Reclaimed brick complemented by expansive glass façades defines a linear community that fosters social interaction and accessibility for senior living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reclaimed brick from the existing school structure enhances sustainability and historical continuity.
02
Ample glass panels maximize natural light while promoting outdoor connection.
03
Linear layout encourages movement and social interaction among residents.
04
Integrated gardens and courtyards provide communal spaces for activities and relaxation.
05
User-friendly design includes wide pathways and ramps for enhanced accessibility.

### Overview
Located in Seoul, South Korea, the project is designed to address the increasing demand for senior living accommodations in urban settings. The complex is conceived as an adaptive community that caters to a diverse demographic of seniors, enhancing accessibility and promoting social integration. The intent is to improve the quality of life for elderly residents by creating thoughtfully designed spaces that encourage community interaction.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout of the complex is structured as a linear community, inspired by the dynamics of a train station, facilitating ease of movement and interaction among residents. The arrangement of interconnected living units and communal facilities fosters a sense of exploration and engagement, with strategically placed gardens and open spaces that enhance outdoor activities and social gatherings. Courtyards serve as communal hubs, promoting encounters and various forms of social engagement among residents.

### Materiality and Accessibility
The design employs a range of materials aimed at promoting structural integrity, warmth, and accessibility. Notable features include a cracked brick facade reclaimed from the existing site, which adds a historical context to the community. Extensive use of glass panels allows for ample natural light and a connection to the outdoors, enhancing the living experience. The layout emphasizes accessibility, with wide pathways and ramps designed to accommodate varying mobility levels. Universal design principles are incorporated to ensure that all aspects of the facility are navigable for residents, furthering the project's commitment to inclusivity.

### Sustainability Strategy
Incorporating sustainable design elements, the complex includes green spaces, optimal airflow, and natural lighting throughout, prioritizing the mental well-being and physical health of residents. Each section of the complex is designed to include immediate access to healthcare and recreational services, ensuring comprehensive care for seniors. The designs also allow for future adaptability, providing flexibility that aligns with the evolving needs of the community.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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