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Sustainable Living Enhanced By Schist Walls And Split-Level Design In A Community-Focused Environment

Authors:
Lorenzo Mahfoud, Stephane Thybulle
Sustainable Living Enhanced By Schist Walls And Split-Level Design In A Community-Focused Environment

Project in-detail

Combining split-level design with locally sourced schist and oak, the retirement home fosters community interaction while seamlessly integrating with the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced schist to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates split-level design to improve accessibility across varying terrain.
03
Features extensive outdoor gardens designed to promote resident well-being.
04
Employs sustainable materials, including clay bricks and oak, to reduce environmental impact.
05
Encourages community interaction through strategically placed common areas and social spaces.
The Promenade retirement home is an architectural project situated in Leiria, Portugal, designed to meet the evolving needs of an aging population. It emphasizes accessibility, community integration, and a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. The project aims to provide an environment that enhances the quality of life for its residents, prioritizing comfort and independence while fostering social connections.

The design encompasses a split-level structure that skillfully utilizes the site's natural slope, ensuring all areas are easily navigable. The choice of materials, including locally sourced clay bricks, lime coating, oak wood, and schist rocks, reflects a commitment to sustainability and regional architectural practices. This approach not only reinforces the building's durability but also its visual connection to the local environment.

Inclusive communal spaces such as living rooms, sunrooms, therapy rooms, and libraries are strategically located on the lower level, facilitating social engagement among residents. The upper level comprises private bedrooms and additional community areas, thus striking a balance between personal living and shared experiences.

Innovative Design Approaches

The Promenade retirement home incorporates several unique design features that distinguish it from typical retirement facilities. The concept of a "promenade" informs the layout, as pathways and landscaped gardens encourage residents to engage in leisurely strolls while naturally promoting physical activity. Each level is accessible through ramps rather than stairs, enhancing mobility for all users and accommodating various physical capabilities.

The integration of outdoor spaces serves as an extension of indoor living, with gardens and terraces designed for relaxation and social gatherings. This emphasis on nature is evident throughout the project, as ample natural light and views of the surrounding landscape enhance the overall living experience.

Architectural Considerations

Thermal comfort is a significant aspect of the design; passive solar heating and natural ventilation methods are employed to maintain an agreeable indoor climate throughout the year. This strategy reduces reliance on mechanical systems, aligning with contemporary principles of sustainable architecture.

The thoughtful arrangement of spaces aids in fostering community ties among residents, making it essential for the architectural design to consider the social aspects of daily life. The layout allows for clustering of common areas, encouraging interactions and collaborative activities, vital for establishing a supportive environment.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Promenade retirement home project, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas presented in the detailed project documentation. This deeper insight will provide further clarity on how design elements have been effectively integrated to achieve the project's goals.
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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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