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Tactile Living Spaces with Aerated Concrete and Thermal Insulation for Visually Impaired Residents

Author:
Dong yeop Kim
Tactile Living Spaces with Aerated Concrete and Thermal Insulation for Visually Impaired Residents

Project in-detail

Designed with tactile landmarks and a central courtyard, this semi-detached residence utilizes aerated concrete and thermal insulation to create a comfortable living environment for visually impaired individuals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Focuses on the needs of visually impaired residents through intentional spatial design.
02
Incorporates tactile landmarks to aid navigation and orientation within the home.
03
Features a central courtyard designed for both privacy and social interaction.
04
Configured with distinct living areas as navigational bearings for residents.
05
Utilizes thermal insulation and aerated concrete for energy efficiency and comfort.

The design focuses on creating a residence specifically for visually impaired individuals in Seoul, Republic of Korea. The overall concept prioritizes spatial awareness and mobility, addressing the needs of its occupants while encouraging independence and social interaction. This structure is positioned as a semi-detached home that effectively utilizes limited urban space, providing a supportive environment for residents.

Layout and Organization

The home features a practical arrangement of living spaces divided into four key areas: living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Each distinct area acts as a navigational reference, helping residents recognize their surroundings. The geometric design of the house reduces confusion and allows for a more straightforward path to follow, which is important for visually impaired individuals.

Public and Private Spaces

Public areas such as the living room and kitchen are located on the ground floor, while bedrooms and bathrooms occupy the second floor. This setup helps maintain personal privacy for the residents and encourages community interaction. A central courtyard is included as a shared space, allowing for both social gatherings and quiet moments, enhancing the overall living experience.

Materials and Sensory Features

Materials chosen for construction include thermal insulation to improve energy efficiency and aerated concrete for strength and stability. Plywood is utilized for interior finishes, ensuring both beauty and practicality. A waterproofing layer and a membrane sheet protect the structure from moisture. Contrasting colors and textures are integrated into the design to assist with spatial orientation, making it easier for residents to navigate their home.

Design Details

The house incorporates tactile landmarks and clear pathways that support safe movement. Handrails are strategically placed throughout, enhancing accessibility and user experience. This focus on detail demonstrates a commitment to creating a living environment specifically for visually impaired individuals, ensuring safety and comfort become integral parts of daily life.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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