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Self-Shading Structures With Recycled Rubber and Collaborative Green Spaces in Urban Senior Housing

Authors:
Nathan Vincent Ma, Salonee Ghosh
Self-Shading Structures With Recycled Rubber and Collaborative Green Spaces in Urban Senior Housing

Project in-detail

Recycled rubber flooring, modular housing units, and integrated bioswales create an accessible and climate-resilient environment aimed at fostering intergenerational connections within urban senior living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled rubber flooring enhances safety while reducing environmental impact.
02
Bioswales integrated into the design manage stormwater and create green recreational spaces.
03
Modular housing units promote flexibility and accommodate changing resident needs.
04
Shared gardens foster community interaction and provide therapeutic green areas.
05
Self-shading structures minimize energy consumption and improve indoor comfort.
The architectural project "K to Grey" in Coney Island, New York, addresses the pressing issue of social isolation among the elderly population, which constitutes approximately 25% of the area’s residents. This initiative integrates senior housing into a vibrant community framework, aiming to facilitate intergenerational interactions and enhance accessibility. The design focuses on creating a pedestrian-friendly environment that connects essential services and fosters social engagement among residents.

Intergenerational Integration and Accessibility

A core element of "K to Grey" is its emphasis on intergenerational living. The architecture incorporates a series of modular senior housing units situated within an active community context. These units are designed to promote relationships between seniors and younger residents, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. The design includes strategic placements of communal spaces, which serve as gathering points for various age groups, encouraging dialogue and collaborative activities. The project also introduces paved paths and pedestrian routes, reinforcing ease of movement throughout the neighborhood while mitigating barriers typical in urban designs.

Sustainable Practices and Climate Resilience

A noteworthy aspect of "K to Grey" is its commitment to sustainability and climate resilience. The project employs eco-friendly materials, such as recycled rubber chips for flooring and kiln-dried aggregates for construction, ensuring durability and low maintenance. A comprehensive stormwater management strategy is implemented through the incorporation of bioswales, which not only aid in flood mitigation but also provide green spaces for recreational purposes. This attention to environmental considerations addresses current and future climate vulnerabilities, making the project adaptable to changing conditions in Coney Island.

Community-Centric Design Features

In crafting "K to Grey," the design team emphasizes community-centric features that distinguish this project from typical senior housing developments. The inclusion of Accessory Dwelling Units enables families to reside near elderly relatives, allowing for both independence and familial connectivity. Shared gardens and outdoor pavilions not only enhance landscape aesthetics but also promote active lifestyles among residents. By ensuring that amenities such as shops and services are easily accessible via the central loop, the project strengthens community ties and encourages ongoing engagement among residents of all ages.

To explore "K to Grey" further and gain insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, interested readers are encouraged to delve into the project's detailed presentation.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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