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Terracotta Roofs and Landscaped Commons in a Community-Oriented Residence for Seniors

Authors:
Radek Jakes, Inga Brückner, KONTEXT ARCHITEKTEN
Terracotta Roofs and Landscaped Commons in a Community-Oriented Residence for Seniors

Project in-detail

Constructed with terracotta roofs and enhanced by landscaped common areas, the residence focuses on creating a supportive community environment specifically designed for elderly individuals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with sustainable terracotta roofing to enhance local climate resilience.
02
Integrates extensive landscaped courtyards designed for social interaction.
03
Features universal design principles for accessibility throughout the site.
04
Utilizes locally sourced materials to connect the building to its surrounding environment.
05
Includes dedicated communal spaces promoting health and wellness activities.

The Aldeiazinha Residence is a well-considered architectural project designed to accommodate the needs of elderly individuals in a community-focused environment. Situated in a rural context, the project aims to foster a sense of belonging and independence among its residents. The central design concept is to create a supportive living environment that integrates both communal and private spaces, encouraging interaction while preserving personal autonomy.

The project consists of several residential buildings, community spaces, and landscaped gardens, which together form a cohesive living area. Each residential unit is designed for functionality, featuring single and double occupancy configurations that cater to various lifestyle needs. The inclusion of common areas such as libraries, restaurants, and activity rooms enhances the quality of living and aligns with the objective of promoting social engagement.

Unique Design Approaches

One distinctive feature of the Aldeiazinha Residence is its emphasis on community integration through open and inviting public spaces. The design incorporates a central urban square, acting as a focal point for social gatherings and activities. This space not only serves as the project’s entryway but also as a venue for cultural events, enriching the residents’ experience and bridging connections with the local community.

The architectural approach prioritizes natural landscape elements. Gardens and courtyards are strategically placed to create transitional spaces between the buildings, allowing for a seamless interaction between private and communal areas. This careful consideration of the site's topography reinforces the project’s sustainability goals, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal while providing accessible outdoor spaces for residents.

Materiality is another significant aspect of the project. A combination of concrete, wood, terracotta, and glass has been selected to ensure durability and comfort. The use of locally relevant materials, such as terracotta for roofing and stone for pathways, connects the building to its geographical context and reinforces its cultural identity.

Circulation within the Aldeiazinha Residence is designed with an emphasis on accessibility. Pathways, ramps, and wide entrances are incorporated to facilitate mobility for all residents, making it a user-friendly environment that adheres to universal design principles.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The architectural design includes key functional components such as residential units, healthcare facilities, and communal areas. Each residential building is oriented to maximize light and views of the surrounding landscape, contributing to the overall well-being of the residents. Interior spaces are designed with a focus on usability, ensuring that essential services are easily accessible.

The layout allows for private retreats while also encouraging social interaction in shared spaces. Community-centric areas like a library and activity rooms promote collaboration and support a range of recreational activities, which are essential for fostering a vibrant community life.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the Aldeiazinha Residence project. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of its innovative approach to elder living and its commitment to enhancing community connectivity.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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