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Tactile Spaces Enhanced by Cedar and Rose Wood in a Thoughtfully Designed Home for Visually Impaired Residents

Author:
Mania Minasvand
Tactile Spaces Enhanced by Cedar and Rose Wood in a Thoughtfully Designed Home for Visually Impaired Residents

Project in-detail

Crafted with tactile paving and aromatic cedar wood, this inclusive habitat prioritizes independence and sensory engagement for visually impaired residents, creating a safe and nurturing living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from cedar and rose wood, enhancing both tactile experience and aesthetic warmth.
02
Tactile paving integrated throughout for seamless navigation and orientation.
03
Solar panels incorporated into the design for energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Innovative ramp systems created for easy access between different levels.
05
Private courtyards designed to foster connection with nature while ensuring safety.
The Paper Clip House is an architectural project designed specifically for visually impaired individuals, focusing on creating an inclusive living environment. This design integrates various elements that prioritize safety, accessibility, and comfort. The architectural layout of the project progresses fluidly, resembling the form of a paper clip, symbolizing continuous movement and connection throughout the home.

The primary function of The Paper Clip House is to provide a secure living space that enables independence for its residents. The layout includes open living areas that minimize barriers, allowing easy navigation while fostering communal interaction. The design incorporates private bedrooms, accessible bathrooms, and multifunctional spaces that adapt to the needs of visually impaired residents. Key features include tactile paving to aid navigation, strategically placed courtyards, and ramps that enhance connectivity to outdoor areas.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. A prominent aspect is the use of sensory materials that engage touch and smell, enhancing the spatial experience. Materials such as cedar wood and rose wood provide warmth and comfort, while plastic tiles in the bathroom emphasize safety and functionality. The integration of Japanese tatami flooring contributes to a tranquil atmosphere, further accommodating the sensory needs of the occupants.

The integration of sustainable practices is another distinctive component of this design. The inclusion of photovoltaic solar panels promotes energy independence and underscores a commitment to environmentally responsible living.

Finally, the project addresses community integration through its careful landscaping, which includes boundary bushes that provide privacy while fostering a connection to the environment. The overall design of The Paper Clip House prioritizes user experience, demonstrating a thoughtful application of architectural principles to create a harmonious living space for visually impaired individuals.

For those interested in further exploring the details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, a thorough review of the project presentation is recommended. This examination will provide deeper insights into the unique architectural ideas that define The Paper Clip House.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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