Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Textured Navigation Through Sensory Spaces Incorporating Swiss Stone Pine and Sound-Absorbing Elements

Author:
Teresa Dünninger
Textured Navigation Through Sensory Spaces Incorporating Swiss Stone Pine and Sound-Absorbing Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating sensory navigation features and the warm tones of Swiss stone pine, this residential design prioritizes accessibility and comfort for visually impaired inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates sensory navigation elements to aid visually impaired inhabitants.
02
Utilizes Swiss stone pine for enhanced acoustic and aesthetic qualities.
03
Features textured flooring materials that provide tactile orientation cues.
04
Incorporates sound-absorbing ceilings to maintain a tranquil living environment.
05
Design emphasizes community interaction through strategically placed common areas.
The project titled "Smelling the Path - Home for the Blind" is an architectural design focused on creating an environment tailored to the needs of visually impaired residents. This semi-detached house incorporates an array of sensory elements to enhance navigation, safety, and overall comfort. The design integrates various features that cater specifically to the challenges faced by those with visual impairments, promoting independence and a sense of security within their living space.

Key components of the project include carefully planned layouts that facilitate movement, the use of tactile materials for orientation, and the incorporation of sound-absorbing elements to maintain tranquility. The architecture exemplifies a commitment to addressing the nuanced requirements of its occupants through purposeful design decisions.

Integration of Sensory Engagement

A defining aspect of this project is the emphasis on sensory engagement as a driving force behind its architecture. The use of Swiss stone pine for flooring and wall paneling contributes to both the aesthetic and acoustic quality of the home. This material not only warm the interior environment but also helps absorb sound, creating a language of comfort that resonates throughout the space. The distinct tactile qualities of different floor coverings serve as orientation markers, enabling residents to navigate confidently.

A unique feature of the design is the incorporation of tactile indicators, such as handrails and textured pathways. These elements function as guidance systems, allowing visually impaired residents to become familiar with their surroundings. Furthermore, the careful arrangement of common areas in proximity to living spaces promotes social interaction while ensuring easy access.

Holistic Architectural Considerations

The design also prioritizes holistic architectural considerations, such as lighting and transitional spaces. Uniform lighting throughout the house is intentionally designed to minimize glare and create a stable environment. This approach enhances the spatial quality of the project, ensuring that the layout remains navigable under various lighting conditions.

Transitional areas, particularly between different flooring materials, are marked with distinct changes in texture, providing essential feedback to residents as they move through the space. The incorporation of sound-absorbing ceilings and curtains further ensures that noise is mitigated, creating a peaceful environment that supports the well-being of its occupants.

For those interested in the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project, further exploration will provide deeper insights into its unique features and functionality. The architectural ideas embedded within this design highlight the potential for creating inclusive living environments that cater to the diverse needs of individuals.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy