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Sensory Courtyards and Private Facades in a Community Space for the Visually Impaired

Authors:
Qi Zhu, Yu Gu
Sensory Courtyards and Private Facades in a Community Space for the Visually Impaired
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Carefully designed courtyards introduce sensory experiences while private facades enhance comfort and security, forming a unique living environment for visually impaired residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sensory courtyards incorporate external sounds and smells for enriched experiences.
02
Private facades minimize visual openings to enhance occupant privacy.
03
Centralized circulation core facilitates easy movement throughout the space.
04
Structured around eight distinct functional spaces for diverse living needs.
05
Strategically positioned to balance urban access with personal retreat.

The design of "Home for the Blind" is situated on the edge of the old city of Suzhou, China. It provides essential living spaces for visually impaired individuals. The overall concept revolves around creating an environment that promotes accessibility and comfort while also addressing the specific sensory experiences of its residents.

Design Concept

The building's location takes advantage of being near a wide moat to the south and busy streets to the north. This placement allows residents to enjoy urban amenities while also offering a sense of retreat. The project recognizes the unique needs of blind individuals and aims to foster a balance between interaction with the city and a peaceful living environment.

Circulation and Space Organization

Circulation is a key consideration in the design. The central core of the building facilitates easy movement and access. Surrounding this core are eight distinct functional spaces organized around landscaped courtyards. This arrangement encourages social interaction and ensures that each area, whether communal or private, is accessible to all residents.

Facade Integration

The building's facade minimizes window openings to safeguard the privacy of its occupants. This design choice reflects a thoughtful understanding of the sensory experiences of blind individuals. The courtyard walls are designed with small gaps that allow external sounds and smells to enter, enriching everyday life and creating a connection to the outside world.

Functional Space Design

Architectural plans detail how different areas are organized, including spaces for dining, living, balconies, and bedrooms. Each space is designed with comfort and interaction in mind, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere that meets the residents' needs. This careful arrangement results in a supportive living environment.

The design focuses on improving the quality of life for its residents through thoughtful spatial organization and sensory engagement, leading to a home that is tailored to their unique experiences.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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