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Terracotta Facades and Teak Interiors Defining Senior Living Through Cultural Resonance

Authors:
Aya Maharani, Claudia Ivana Roulina Wijaya , Ramadhoni Dwi Payana , Syarif Hidayatullah
Terracotta Facades and Teak Interiors Defining Senior Living Through Cultural Resonance

Project in-detail

Utilizing traditional Joglo roof forms and local teak, the facility enhances community engagement through carefully designed interactive spaces aimed at improving the quality of life for seniors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modern interpretation of the traditional Joglo roof to enhance natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates local teak wood for structural elements, promoting regional craftsmanship.
03
Features community gardens designed to encourage resident interaction and wellbeing.
04
Employs roster brick for passive cooling and improved air circulation throughout the building.
05
Integrates accessible pathways to ensure mobility for all residents within the facility.
Omah Harsa is an architectural project designed as a senior living facility located in Pacitan, East Java, Indonesia. Its primary objective is to cater to the growing elderly population while fostering a supportive community environment. The architecture synthesizes traditional Javanese elements with contemporary design to create a comfortable and familiar space for residents.

The facility emphasizes a community-oriented approach, countering the isolation often experienced in senior living environments. Omah Harsa combines cultural values with modern amenities, providing groundwork for social interaction and physical well-being. Crucially, the design adheres to the principles of accessibility and safety, essential in spaces intended for older adults.

Integration of Traditional and Modern Architectural Elements

One of the distinguishing features of Omah Harsa is its interpretation of the Joglo roof style, a traditional Javanese architectural form known for its unique structure that promotes ventilation and natural light. The modern adaptation of the Joglo roof enhances the aesthetic and functional quality of the building. The incorporation of skylights is a deliberate design decision aimed at maximizing natural illumination and promoting energy efficiency.

The project employs local materials throughout, including clay roof tiles, teak wood, roster bricks, terra cotta tiles, and concrete. These materials not only contribute to the facility's structural integrity but also resonate with the cultural landscape of East Java, reinforcing a sense of place. By selecting these materials, the design team ensures durability while maintaining a natural warmth that is essential for creating inviting living spaces for residents.

Community-Centric Design and Spatial Organization

The spatial organization of Omah Harsa is carefully planned to facilitate interaction among residents while ensuring areas of privacy. Communal spaces, such as gardens and activity zones, are strategically located to encourage social engagement while allowing residents the option for solitary retreat. Activity zones accommodate a variety of pursuits, supporting both physical activities and cultural practices integral to the community's way of life.

Health and wellness also play a crucial role in the design. On-site amenities are seamlessly integrated to provide essential services, promoting physical well-being among residents. The layout respects mobility considerations critical for an aging population, ensuring that pathways and access points are designed for easy navigation.

Omah Harsa exemplifies thoughtful architecture where design solutions are directly informed by both cultural heritage and modern needs. This project serves as a reference for future developments in senior living, demonstrating how architectural choices can meaningfully enhance the quality of life for residents. To learn more about the architectural plans, sections, and specific designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for additional insights into this innovative project.
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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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