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Spiral Ramps and Natural Light In A Community-Focused Senior Housing Initiative

Author:
Joobyung Chae
Spiral Ramps and Natural Light In A Community-Focused Senior Housing Initiative

Project in-detail

A central spiral ramp enhances accessibility while maximizing natural light in a residential complex designed for seniors, fostering communal interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central spiral ramps provide seamless accessibility across all levels.
02
Natural light is maximized through extensive glass facades, enhancing the living environment.
03
Unique communal spaces are strategically placed to promote interaction among residents.
04
Sustainable materials, including concrete and wood, are utilized for structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
05
Design integrates landscape features, promoting a connection to nature within the urban setting.

The project represents a contemporary approach to senior housing, focusing on community and accessibility. Located at 2177 Frederick Douglass Boulevard in Harlem, New York, this architectural design aims to counter the isolation often experienced by the elderly by creating an environment that promotes social interaction.

The design emphasizes a barrier-free experience, utilizing ramps throughout the building to replace traditional stairs. This approach caters to residents with varying mobility levels, enhancing inclusivity. The architectural design incorporates various communal spaces, including a cafeteria, activity rooms, and shared living areas that facilitate engagement among residents. These design choices ensure that socialization is a core element of daily living.

Innovative Design Approaches to Senior Living

This project differentiates itself from typical senior housing developments through its unique spatial organization and focus on communal living. The spiral ramp system serves as both a functional and aesthetic element, allowing seamless movement between floors without the physical barriers that often segregate spaces. The use of glass in the facades is strategically designed to maximize natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere within public and private spaces.

The incorporation of diverse materials such as concrete, steel, wood finishes, and vegetative plantings further sets this project apart. These materials not only contribute to the structural integrity of the building but also enhance the environmental quality, providing a connection to nature that benefits residents’ well-being.

Detailed Architectural Solutions

The layout prioritizes accessibility while fostering community. Living units include private bedrooms linked to shared living rooms, establishing a balance between privacy and social interaction. The central placement of common areas encourages spontaneous gatherings, and well-designed circulation paths facilitate easy access to all facilities.

The thoughtful integration of shared amenities and communal facilities diminishes the physical and psychological barriers that traditionally characterize senior living spaces, creating a vibrant residential environment. This project serves as a potential model for future developments aiming to create supportive and engaging living conditions for seniors.

For more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of this innovative project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of the work. Additionally, reviewing the architectural ideas and specific design elements will provide a deeper understanding of the project's objectives and methodologies.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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