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Timber Canopy Reflecting Natural Light in a Community Space for Elderly Wellness

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Timber Canopy Reflecting Natural Light in a Community Space for Elderly Wellness
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Incorporating cross-laminated timber and expansive glass elements, the design creates a luminous environment that fosters intergenerational connections and wellness for the elderly within an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, maximizing natural light and spatial flow.
04
Promotes intergenerational interaction by placing recreational areas adjacent to patient zones.
05
Integrates reflection spaces throughout, catering to the mental well-being of users.

## Project Overview
Located in the urban center of Hangzhou, China, the "Reintegration - A Garden Next to Home" project addresses socio-environmental challenges related to aging populations, healthcare accessibility, and community integration. The design intention centers on fostering interactions among the elderly and creating an environment that supports wellness and alleviates the stigma surrounding illness and mortality.

### Spatial Strategy and Zoning
The layout is carefully structured to enhance space utilization and facilitate accessibility. The site is divided into distinct zones: Gathering Areas are intended for communal activities, promoting engagement among residents, therapy patients, and visitors. Recreational Spaces feature sunken grass areas and children's play zones, encouraging intergenerational interaction that brings vitality and hope to adult patients. Additionally, Reflection Areas are strategically positioned throughout to offer tranquil environments conducive to contemplation, addressing the therapeutic needs of those facing significant health challenges.

### Materiality and Structural Form
The architectural form exhibits a blend of modern lines and organic features, creating an inviting atmosphere. Key materials include concrete, which provides structural integrity and serves as a neutral backdrop; wood, utilized in window frames and facades, which imparts warmth and a tactile quality; and extensive glass elements that enhance natural light and establish continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. This careful selection of materials not only fulfills functional requirements but also contributes to a therapeutic setting, encouraging emotional connection to the environment.

Distinct design elements, such as a thoughtfully patterned roof structure, contribute to a light-filled ambiance while promoting interaction and connection between built spaces and nature. The strategic proximity of recreational spaces to patient areas fosters spontaneous engagement, normalizing discussions about health issues and enhancing community life within the facility.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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