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Tactile Clay Walls and Wood Framework Foster Community in Accessible Residential Design

Authors:
Samine Bagherzade, Mohsen Bahmanyar, Mehek Asaria, Mehrnaz Miri
Tactile Clay Walls and Wood Framework Foster Community in Accessible Residential Design

Project in-detail

Textured clay walls and a wood framework create a sensory-rich environment that enhances navigation and accessibility for visually impaired residents in this thoughtfully designed communal living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Textured clay walls enhance tactile interaction and orientation for visually impaired residents.
02
Circular central courtyard promotes communal engagement and natural light distribution.
03
Wood framework utilizes locally sourced materials, reducing environmental impact.
04
Strategically varied ceiling heights create auditory cues for navigation.
05
Landscape integration includes local flora to enhance sensory experiences.
The Loop Home is a residential architectural project situated in the Tis area of Sistan and Baluchistan province, Iran. It is designed specifically to address the needs of visually impaired individuals. The project embodies a careful synthesis of functional living spaces and sensory orientation strategies, fostering independence and comfort for its residents while respecting environmental and cultural contexts. The architectural layout features a central circular courtyard, which serves as a pivotal element in the design, promoting community interaction and enhancing natural light and airflow throughout the living areas.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The Loop Home consists of a well-planned arrangement that includes five bedrooms, two offices, a kitchen, a common hall, and a living area. Each room is strategically oriented to facilitate navigation and spatial understanding for visually impaired users. Notable is the differentiation of ceiling heights and the use of distinct tactile materials, which assist in wayfinding and orientation. Circulation pathways are designed to be intuitive, with variations in textures underfoot that provide sensory feedback. This is critical for promoting autonomy and confidence among residents in navigating their home environment.

Integration of Local Materials and Cultural Relevance

The architectural design prioritizes local materials, utilizing clay and wood to construct the form. This choice not only ensures thermal comfort and durability but also aligns with traditional building practices in the region. The project design incorporates cultural references, such as geometric patterns and motifs typical of Iranian architecture, which enhance aesthetic appreciation and connect the residence to its geographical context. Moreover, the roof design allows for natural ventilation, responding to the arid climate while minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems.

Innovative Approaches to Accessibility

A distinctive aspect of Loop Home is its focus on sensory engagement, which sets it apart from standard residential designs. The design employs tactile surfaces and auditory features to create an interactive environment. For instance, the integration of natural landscapes and diverse planting strategies offers additional sensory experiences. The circular courtyard introduces a communal space that allows residents to gather, facilitating social interaction and fostering a sense of belonging. The overall structure promotes inclusivity through design decisions that prioritize accessibility and comfort.

The Loop Home serves as a relevant case study in architectural design for individuals with specific needs, signifying a progressive approach in residential spaces. To explore the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas further, interested readers are encouraged to review the detailed project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its features and architectural solutions.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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